Low white blood cell count in seven year old
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Dear Ask The Doctor: My 7 year old daughter has a low white blood cell count. It was borderline low in December and we just retested it is still low. She is extremely tall for her age - she is the same height as many children 2 years older than she is, could her rapid growth be a cause? She is also pale and has been complaining that she is tired lately. What are the chances that this is something serious. I cannot get in to see the doctor until next week and am going crazy with worry. Thank You!
Dear Sacha: I understand how concerned you are about your daughters low white blood cell count. In children a low white blood cell count in children varies with age and sex. I cant give you a specific diagnosis but I will suggest you to comply with her doctors appointment to rule out a severe cause.Usually common conditions such as allergies or been in the middle of some antibiotic treatment and having a viral infection such as Cold or Flu could lower the number of the WBC. However there are other severe conditions such as diseases of the Bone Marrow or autoimmune disorders that could destroy these cells and need to be ruled out to prevent more serious complications. Usually in those cases the Red Blood Cells could also be decreased, since your daughter is pale a possibility of having Anemia could be considered. Certainly the only way to find out the real cause is after a detailed study a physical exam. I wish her a prompt recovery. |
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Last Updated ( Wednesday, 05 May 2010 )
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