Meaning not enough neutrophils, a type of white blood cell that kills and digests microorganisms such as viruses. The neutrophil has a lifespan of about 3 days. Neutropenia may be seen with viral infections or after radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Being neutropenic lowers the barrier to infection-making a patient very susceptible. Precautions like "no live flowers and mask/gown/ gloving" isolation help to keep potential infections down.