A Duffy null–associated neutrophil count (DANC) is a harmless, inherited trait that can make neutrophil levels look low on a blood test — even though the body is healthy. Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that fights infection. Duffy null–associated neutrophil count (formerly called benign ethnic neutropenia) is not a disease, does not cause any symptoms, and doesn't make it more likely for someone to get infections or illnesses.
Your child is healthy and does not need any treatment for this condition.
You or your child have any questions about Duffy null–associated neutrophil count.
What causes a child to have Duffy null–associated neutrophil count? It is caused by a specific genetic mutation (change) that is passed down from their parents. The child receives one copy of the gene from each parent. Because it runs in families, a parent, sibling, or other relative may have the same low neutrophil count pattern.
It is most common in people whose families come from certain areas of Africa, but it can happen in people from other areas too.
Will my child outgrow Duffy null–associated neutrophil count? No, it is a lifelong genetic trait. The neutrophil count will tend to run lower than the standard range throughout life, but that is simply your child's normal. It does not turn into a disease or get worse over time.
Is my child at higher risk for blood cancer or other problems? No. Having Duffy null–associated neutrophil doesn't put your child at higher risk. It is a harmless condition.
Will my child need to have blood tests more often? Sometimes doctors repeat blood tests to see if the additional test shows similar results. (The number of neutrophils will never be the exact same number.) When you first learn your child has Duffy null–associated neutrophil, the doctor may test the blood more often to find out your child's typical neutrophil range.