Proper management of a child with an absolute neutrophil count (ANC) of 100/mm3 would be
**Core Concept**
Severe neutropenia, defined as an absolute neutrophil count (ANC) below 500/mm^3, predisposes patients to life-threatening infections. In children with an ANC of 100/mm^3, the risk of infection is significantly increased, necessitating prompt and appropriate management.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Proper management of a child with an ANC of 100/mm^3 involves aggressive supportive care, including broad-spectrum antibiotics, antifungal prophylaxis, and careful monitoring for signs of infection. This approach aims to minimize the risk of infection-related complications and optimize the child's quality of life. The use of colony-stimulating factors, such as granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) or granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), may also be considered to stimulate neutrophil production.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** This option is incorrect because it does not address the underlying issue of severe neutropenia. While supportive care is essential, it is not sufficient to manage a child with an ANC of 100/mm^3.
* **Option B:** This option is incorrect because it does not provide any specific guidance on managing a child with an ANC of 100/mm^3. A general approach to infection prevention is not sufficient in this case.
* **Option D:** This option is incorrect because it is too vague and does not provide any specific guidance on managing a child with an ANC of 100/mm^3.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
In children with severe neutropenia, the risk of infection is highest during the first 2 weeks after chemotherapy or bone marrow transplantation. Close monitoring for signs of infection, including fever, sore throat, and cough, is essential to prevent complications.
**Correct Answer:** C. Use of colony-stimulating factors (such as GM-CSF or G-CSF) to stimulate neutrophil production, along with aggressive supportive care, is the most appropriate management strategy for a child with an ANC of 100/mm^3.