Introduction

The risk of developing an infection associated with neutropenia is related to the severity and duration of neutropenia.

The spectrum of organisms that cause bacteremia have changed over the last 3 decades, from one previously dominated by gram-negative strains, to the current gram-positive dominated state.

Empiric treatment using broad-spectrum antibacterial and antifungals has significantly reduced the morbidity and mortality in febrile patients with neutropenia. However, the proper use of these agents when used alone or in combination is crucial in order to minimize the development of anti-microbial resistance, especially in the long-term treatment of cancer patients.