What does it mean if the percentage of monocytes is low?
Sep 03, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Feng
Introduction
A low percentage of monocytes may be caused by factors such as age, recovery phase after infection, viral infections, anemia, or leukemia. Moderately increasing intake of protein-rich foods, such as lean meat, fish, and soy products, helps maintain normal immune function. Maintaining a balanced diet with sufficient vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, along with consuming more fresh vegetables and fruits, is also recommended.
In general, a low percentage of monocytes may be caused by factors such as age, recovery phase after infection, viral infections, anemia, or leukemia. If you experience any discomfort, seek medical attention immediately. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Age factor
Infants, young children, and elderly individuals may naturally have lower monocyte percentages, which is a normal physiological change related to age. No specific treatment is usually required; regular monitoring of blood parameters is sufficient.
2. Recovery phase after infection
During infection, monocytes and other white blood cells in the immune system are heavily mobilized to the site of infection to participate in inflammatory responses. After the infection is controlled, the production and release of monocytes may temporarily decrease. Adequate rest, good nutrition, and immune support are recommended.
3. Viral infection
In the early stages of viral infection, other types of white blood cells such as neutrophils respond rapidly and increase in number, while the production and release of monocytes may be temporarily affected, leading to a decreased percentage. Symptoms such as fever and chills may also occur. Treatment with medications such as amoxicillin capsules, oseltamivir granules, or penicillin V potassium tablets should be conducted under medical guidance.
4. Hemolytic anemia
Hemolytic anemia can be triggered by factors such as colds or abnormal red blood cells. When hemolysis occurs, the bone marrow initiates a compensatory response by increasing red blood cell production to replace destroyed cells. This compensatory mechanism may partially suppress the production of other cell types in the bone marrow, including monocytes. Symptoms such as fever and fatigue may accompany this condition. Treatment with medications such as cyclosporine soft capsules, azathioprine tablets, or methylprednisolone tablets should be followed as prescribed by a physician.
5. Leukemia
Leukemia is associated with viral infections, immune dysfunction, and unhealthy lifestyle habits. In patients with leukemia, abnormal proliferation of leukemic cells suppresses normal hematopoietic function, potentially reducing the number of monocytes and resulting in a lower monocyte percentage. Symptoms such as nausea and vomiting may occur. Treatment with medications such as daunorubicin hydrochloride, mitoxantrone hydrochloride injection, or vincristine sulfate for injection should be administered under the supervision of a specialist physician.
Maintain a balanced diet, ensuring adequate intake of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, and consume more fresh vegetables and fruits.
