Clozapine therapy requires monitoring for agranulocytosis. Which lab finding would warrant immediate attention?

• A. WBC count 8,000/mm3
• B. WBC count 3,000/mm3
• C. Platelets 150,000/mm3
• D. Hemoglobin 12 g/dL

Answer: (B)

Clozapine requires regular monitoring for agranulocytosis, a dangerous drop in neutrophils that weakens the body’s ability to fight infections. A white blood cell count of 3,000/mm3 is below normal and, in the context of clozapine therapy, would trigger immediate evaluation and likely a hold of the medication while the absolute neutrophil count is checked. This is the finding that signals possible neutropenia and prompts urgent clinical attention.

The other values shown are within typical ranges for many adults and do not indicate neutropenia or immediate infection risk, so they wouldn’t require urgent action in this context. In practice, management focuses on the absolute neutrophil count thresholds; if the ANC falls below critical levels, clozapine is stopped and monitored until recovery.