Can DPT vaccine cause neutropenia?

Question

Hi doctor,

My son is 15 years old. He got his DTaP vaccine two weeks ago and had CBC 20 days later. All came well except neutrophil count, which came back as 800, and total WBC as 2500. We are going to repeat the test tomorrow. Can the vaccine be the cause of the neutropenia? And if so, how long will it take to recover?

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Based on your query, my opinion is as follows:

I doubt the vaccine could be the cause of neutropenia (neutrophil count less than normal). Though it can take place in some cases like the Influenza virus vaccine, DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis) have not been reported.
At present, the WBC (white blood cell) count of 2500 is good. We usually call your condition neutropenia, when the absolute neutrophil count falls below 500.
The repeat count should help in confirmation.
Reaction to adjuvant in vaccines or if he is on medications could be the cause.
I need to know his previous counts. If they were normal, the counts should return to normal within a week.
However, nothing to worry about at present as he is doing well. His counts should come back to normal. At present, avoid any risk of infection.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Based on your query, my opinion is as follows:

Good to know that he is doing well without any recent history of infections.
Neutrophils are produced on a daily basis and have a very short life. They respond mainly to bacterial infections, stress, exercises, etc., and as there are none of these, the value of neutrophils is not increased.
Even though the overall count appears low with the decreased neutrophil count, it is only a mild decrease.
Unless the absolute neutrophil count falls below 500, there is nothing to worry about. Only the risk of infection will be the issue.
If his previous counts were low then it could be normal for him. A repeat count can confirm the diagnosis.
The WBC count of 2500 appears low, however, the normal range is based on population study and there will be many with counts of 2500 and it is normal for many.
If the count falls below 500, then a bone marrow biopsy will be necessary. Repeat counts tomorrow can help you with confirmation. However, at present, nothing to worry about.