This article discusses the causes and diagnostic options for benign ethnic neutropenia.
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Defining Benign Ethnic Neutropenia
Neutropeniameans a person has a low neutrophil count.
Benign Ethnic Neutropenia Symptoms
People with BEN do not have symptoms.
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Scientists are still unclear how the genetic change leads to neutropenia.
People with BEN have a laboratory test that shows a low neutrophil count of less than 1,500/mm3.
Repeat blood tests should be done at least two weeks apart.
In children, further testing is required even for mild neutropenia.
BEN in Children
Additional tests are needed to diagnose BEN in children.
Treatment
BEN does not require treatment.
It is a benign illness that does not lead to infections or other chronic problems.
Prognosis
BEN does not increase a persons risk for further health problems.
The diagnosis does not mean that you are more prone to infection or other health problems.
BEN does not require treatment, but it may have implications if you are using chemotherapy for cancer treatment.
Discuss the best diagnostic recommendations with your healthcare provider.
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Atallah-Yunes SA, Ready A, Newburger PE.Benign ethnic neutropenia.Blood Rev.
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