What is the diagnostic workup for leukopenia?

From the Research

Diagnostic Workup for Leukopenia

The diagnostic workup for leukopenia involves several steps to identify the underlying cause of the condition. The following are some of the key components of the diagnostic workup:

• Analysis of the different leukocyte subpopulations to determine the type and severity of leukopenia 1
• Automated total blood cell count to get a first impression of the decreased leukocyte subtype and to check if erythrocytes and/or platelets are involved 1
• Microscopic interpretation of the blood smear to verify the automated differential and to assess the morphology of the individual cells 1
• Checking previous blood counts of the patient to understand the dynamic development of the leukopenia 2
• Checking the red blood cell count and platelet count to identify any bi- or pancytopenia, which may indicate insufficient production in the bone marrow 2
• Assessment of the patient's clinical status and the duration of leukopenia to guide the diagnostic workup and treatment 3

Laboratory Tests and Examinations

Laboratory tests and examinations play a crucial role in the diagnostic workup of leukopenia. Some of the key tests and examinations include:

• Bone marrow examination, which may be ordered more frequently in patients with neutropenia 4
• Automated differential count to determine the type and severity of leukopenia 1
• Manual counted peripheral blood smear to provide information on potential causes such as dysplasia 2
• Autoimmune laboratory tests to identify any underlying autoimmune disorders 4

Underlying Causes of Leukopenia

The underlying causes of leukopenia can be varied and may include:

• Infection 5, 3, 4
• Drugs 5, 3, 4
• Malignancy 5
• Megaloblastosis 5
• Hypersplenism 5, 2, 4
• Immunoneutropenia 5
• Autoimmune disorders, such as autoimmune thyroid disease and other autoimmune/autoinflammatory diseases 4
• Iron deficiency anemia 4
• Hematopoietic disorders 4
• Radiotherapy sequel 4
• B12 deficiency 4