Chronic neutropenia in children with Schwachman-Diamond Syndrome increases the risk for which of the following conditions?

Chronic neutropenia, particularly in conditions such as Schwachman-Diamond Syndrome, leads to multiple challenges due to impaired immune function. Children with this syndrome often have a compromised ability to fight infections because neutrophils, a type of white blood cell essential for combating infections, are diminished. This persistent low level of neutrophils can also affect other aspects of health, including the maintenance of bone integrity.

Bone demineralization is often a consequence of prolonged periods of infection or inflammation, which is common in children with neutropenia. The focus on chronic inflammation and the need for the body to rely on alternative mechanisms to compensate for the lack of neutrophils can result in a decrease in bone density over time. Therefore, bone demineralization is a concern in these patients as they may lead to an increased risk of fractures and other skeletal issues.

While aplastic anemia, rheumatoid arthritis, and asthma are significant health concerns, they are not directly attributable to the chronic neutropenic condition associated with Schwachman-Diamond Syndrome in the same way that bone demineralization is.