Febrile neutropenia

Abstract

The early and proper administration of antibiotic therapy in febrile neutropenic patients became well established in the 1970s, because of the high mortality that was seen when antibiotics were withheld until the presence of infection could be proven. Since then, there has been a trend in decrease in morbidity and mortality with a more directed systematic approach. A careful initial evaluation of the febrile neutropenic patient, an understanding of the potential organisms responsible for infection, risk assessment to guide therapy, and appropriate use of antibiotics are vital in the management of these patients. This review article essentially highlights many of the concepts of managing febrile neutropenic patients including the pathogenesis, diagnosis, risk assessment and antibiotic therapy.