In cancer patients, what is a potential effect of neutropenia?

In cancer patients, neutropenia refers to a reduction in the number of neutrophils, which are a type of white blood cell essential for fighting off infections. The primary role of neutrophils is to protect the body against bacterial and fungal infections. Consequently, when a patient experiences neutropenia, their immune system is compromised, leading to a significantly heightened vulnerability to infections.

This increased risk of infection can manifest in various ways, including fever, chills, or other symptoms indicating an underlying infection. Because neutrophils are typically the first responders to sites of infection, a deficiency can delay the body’s ability to respond effectively, allowing infections to take hold more easily and potentially leading to severe complications.

The other options, such as the risk of bleeding, blood viscosity, and metabolism, do not directly correlate with the effects of neutropenia and are associated with different clinical conditions or complications. Thus, recognizing that neutropenia primarily leads to a compromised immune response and increased infection risk is crucial in managing cancer patients effectively.