What hereditary condition can cause cyclic neutropenia?

Cyclic neutropenia is a hereditary condition characterized by recurrent episodes of neutropenia, which is a low level of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell essential for fighting off infections. The correct answer, inherited bone marrow failure, refers to genetic disorders that affect the bone marrow's ability to produce sufficient blood cells, including neutrophils.

In cyclic neutropenia, patients typically experience cycles of neutrophil deficiency that occur at regular intervals, often every 21 days, leading to increased vulnerability to infections during these cycles. This condition is primarily associated with mutations in the ELANE gene, which affects the production and lifespan of neutrophils within the bone marrow, highlighting the role of genetic factors in the bone marrow's capacity to maintain proper blood cell counts.

Other conditions mentioned, such as Down syndrome and Churg-Strauss syndrome, are associated with a variety of other health issues but do not specifically lead to cyclic neutropenia. A general immunodeficiency disorder could involve various immune system components but is not specifically related to the cyclic nature of neutrophil fluctuations seen in cyclic neutropenia. Thus, hereditary factors leading to bone marrow dysfunction are the most relevant cause of cyclic neutropenia.