Neutropenic Sepsis

Question 1

What is the NICE definition of neutropenic sepsis?

Answer 1

Patient undergoing systemic anticancer treatment
Temp >38
Neutrophil count <0.5

Question 2

What are features of neutropenic sepsis?

Answer 2

Fever
HR>90
sBP <90
RR >20
Confusion 

Features specific to source of infection

Question 3

What factors can increase infection risk?

Answer 3

Prolonged neutropenia > 7 days
Severity of neutropenia
Comorbidities
Central lines
Mucosal disruption

Question 4

How is neutropenic sepsis managed?

Answer 4

Empiric broad spectrum IV abx
Fluids
Involve senior team members

+/- GCSF

Question 5

How can neutropenic sepsis be prevented?

Answer 5

Patient education

Abx prophylaxis - fluoroquinolone