The bone marrow produces various types of white blood cells. Certain ones that look like grains in a microscope are called neutrophils . These granular white blood cells are the body's first defense against infection. Cause Agranulocytosis is a rare disorder that is usually caused by exposure to certain medications that suppress the production of neutrophils .
Cancer chemotherapy is the most common cause of agranulocytosis.
Drugs such as penicillins , sulfonamides , phenothiazines, antithyroids, and anticonvulsants sometimes also reduce the number of neutrophils in the blood . Exposure to industrial chemicals such as solvents and hydrocarbons may cause agranulocytosis as well. In some cases, such as infantile genetic agranulocytosis, the disease is hereditary. Symptoms you are likely to notice A reduced neutrophil count increases susceptibility to infections. Fever , sore throat, and mouth and throat ulcers may be signs of agranulocytosis.