Prescribing Safety Assessment (PSA) Practice Exam

Which condition is characterized by low levels of neutrophils?

1. Neutrophilia

2. Thrombocytopenia

3. Neutropenia

4. Lymphocytosis

The correct answer is: Neutropenia

Neutropenia is a condition specifically defined by low levels of neutrophils, which are a type of white blood cell essential for fighting off infections. Neutrophils play a critical role in the immune system, particularly in responding to bacterial infections. When neutrophil counts are reduced, a person becomes more susceptible to infections, as there are fewer cells available to combat pathogens. In interpreting the context of the question, neutrophilia refers to an increase in neutrophils, which is the opposite condition of neutropenia. Thrombocytopenia pertains to low levels of platelets in the blood, which affects clotting rather than neutrophil levels. Lymphocytosis, on the other hand, involves an increase in lymphocytes, another type of white blood cell, and does not relate to neutrophil counts at all. Thus, neutropenia is the only option that directly addresses the condition characterized by low levels of neutrophils.