portuguese

Abstract

The neutrophilic leukemoid reaction consists of a non-malignant myeloproliferative syndrome, caused by factors that stimulate an exacerbated response of the immune system, common in infectious conditions mainly caused by bacteria, supplementation of granulocytic colony growth factors or excretion by tumors. It has characteristics that may be confusing with other syndromes, such as chronic myeloid leukemia, requiring a differential diagnosis. Analyzing the scientific literature, it is possible to link a greater number of cases of neutrophilic leukemoid reaction in patients with bacterial infection, this occurrence being related to bacterial virulence factors. Keywords: leukemoid reaction; neutrophilia; bacterial infections; virulence.