[Febrile neutropenia]

Abstract

Chemotherapy-related neutropenia is frequently complicated by infections. In granulocytopenic cancer patients, the early empiric administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics is the cornerstone of the management and has dramatically decreased the infection-related mortality. Several intravenous antibiotic regimens have been shown to be effective and well tolerated, especially monotherapies with broad-spectrum beta-lactams. The analysis of the outcome of febrile neutropenic patients has allowed the differentiation of those at high risk from those at low risk of infectious complications. In low risk patients, oral antibiotic regimens have been shown as effective as intravenous regimens. Running studies will allow to determine the advantages and limits of an outpatient management.