INVESTIGATION OF INFECTION IN THE NEUTROPENIC PATIENT WITH FEVER

Episodes of infection occurring in neutropenic patients are often asso ciated with high levels of morbidity and mortality and prompt, accurat e diagnosis allowing the rapid instigation of appropriate treatment ca n lead to an improved outcome. Recent developments in laboratory techn ology have increased the range of investigations available to the phys ician. The improved sensitivity of traditional microbiological culture , methods for antigen and antibody detection and the advances in molec ular biology are among the reasons for an increased ability to detect both familiar and novel pathogens. This article describes the current methods available for determining the aetiology of an infectious episo de in these patients. A plan of management for investigation of febril e episodes in neutropenic patients is suggested.