Leukotoxicity

Leukotoxicity refers to the harmful effects of certain substances or conditions on white blood cells, also known as leukocytes. White blood cells are crucial components of the immune system, responsible for defending the body against infection and disease. When leukotoxicity occurs, the function or survival of these cells can be compromised, potentially leading to a weakened immune response.

Several factors can cause leukotoxicity. Certain medical treatments, particularly chemotherapy drugs used in cancer therapy, are designed to kill rapidly dividing cells, and this can inadvertently damage white blood cells. Radiation therapy can also have a similar effect. Exposure to environmental toxins, such as pesticides or heavy metals, has also been linked to leukotoxicity in some cases. Furthermore, some infectious agents can directly attack and destroy white blood cells.

The consequences of leukotoxicity depend on the severity and duration of the damage to white blood cells. A reduction in the number of white blood cells, a condition known as leukopenia, can significantly increase a person's susceptibility to infections. Symptoms can range from mild, such as fatigue and increased risk of common colds, to severe, leading to life-threatening opportunistic infections. The specific type of white blood cell affected also influences the clinical presentation. For instance, a decrease in neutrophils can lead to neutropenia, a particularly dangerous state for fighting bacterial infections. Medical professionals monitor white blood cell counts closely in individuals undergoing treatments known to cause leukotoxicity.