AGRANULOCYTOSIS

also called Agranulocytic Angina, acute infection characterized by severe sore throat, fever, and prostration and associated with an extreme reduction of the white blood cells (leukopenia), particularly the cell types known as neutrophils (neutropenia). In most cases, agranulocytosis appears to develop as a result of sensitization to certain drugs and chemicals; infection then follows as a consequence, not as a cause, of the profound neutropenia. First observed as a reaction to the coal-tar product aminopyrine, agranulocytosis is now known to be triggered by a variety of pain relievers, tranquilizers, antihistamines, anticonvulsants, sulfonamide derivatives, and antithyroid drugs. It affects only a small number of susceptible individuals. Treatment consists of the immediate and permanent withdrawal of the offending drug and control of the infection with antimicrobial medication.