A decrease in the number of neutrophils is called:

A decrease in the number of neutrophils is called:

• A. Leukopoiesis
• B. Neutropenia
• C. Megaloblasts
• D. Macrocytosis

Answer: (B)

Decrease in circulating neutrophils is called neutropenia. Neutrophils are the main first line of defense against bacterial infections, so when their numbers drop, infection risk rises. Leukopoiesis refers to the production of white blood cells in the bone marrow, not a decrease. Megaloblasts are enlarged immature red blood cell precursors seen in megaloblastic anemia, and macrocytosis describes enlarged red blood cells. So the term that matches a reduced neutrophil count is neutropenia. Clinically, the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) guides how severe the condition is and informs management.

Decrease in circulating neutrophils is called neutropenia. Neutrophils are the main first line of defense against bacterial infections, so when their numbers drop, infection risk rises. Leukopoiesis refers to the production of white blood cells in the bone marrow, not a decrease. Megaloblasts are enlarged immature red blood cell precursors seen in megaloblastic anemia, and macrocytosis describes enlarged red blood cells. So the term that matches a reduced neutrophil count is neutropenia. Clinically, the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) guides how severe the condition is and informs management.