Febrile neutropenia in palliative care

Febrile neutropenia occurs in patients who are immunocompromised. It can be difficult to diagnose because many patients may not mount an immune response. If febrile neutropenia is suspected and active management is within the patient’s goals of care, urgently transfer the patient to hospital.

Management of febrile neutropenia depends on the potential benefits and burdens of each intervention, and the patient’s prognosis, preferences and goals of care—see Emergencies in palliative care. If neutrophil count recovery is unlikely, the use of antibiotics can only be a temporary measure.

If antibiotic therapy is indicated for febrile neutropenia, see the Antibiotic guidelines for management advice.