Absolute Eosinophile Count

This test measures the number of eosinophils in your blood. Eosinophils are important in fighting parasitic infections and allergic reactions. Evaluating the eosinophil count helps diagnose and monitor conditions such as allergies, asthma, autoimmune diseases, and certain infections.

• To assess and monitor allergies like asthma or hay fever
• To diagnose and monitor autoimmune diseases like eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis
• To evaluate and monitor parasitic infections
• To aid in diagnosing and monitoring certain cancers, such as Hodgkin's lymphoma
• To assess the effectiveness of treatment for these conditions

Your doctor may recommend this test if you experience:

• Allergy symptoms like wheezing, coughing, itching, or rashes
• Symptoms suggestive of autoimmune diseases such as inflammation or organ damage
• Signs of parasitic infections like persistent fever, diarrhoea, or unexplained weight loss
• Monitoring for treatment effectiveness or disease progression in specific conditions

The normal range for eosinophils is typically less than 500 cells per microliter of blood. Elevated levels may indicate allergies, asthma, autoimmune diseases, parasitic infections, or certain cancers. Abnormal results require further evaluation by your doctor, who will consider other factors and perform additional tests if necessary.

• A small sample of your blood will be taken using a needle.
• The sample will be sent to the laboratory for analysis.
• The test is quick and usually causes minimal discomfort.
• Results are typically available after 6 hours.

Before the test:

• There is typically no specific preparation needed.
• Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking.
• Follow any instructions given by your doctor regarding fasting or discontinuing specific medications.
• Dress comfortably for easy access to your arm.

• Allergen-specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) blood test: Measures allergic sensitisation to specific substances
• Pulmonary function test: Assesses lung function, helpful in diagnosing asthma
• Chest X-ray or CT scan: Provides detailed images of the chest, useful in evaluating respiratory conditions or lymphomas

Eosinophil Count or Eosinophilia Test

Eosinophilia is a condition characterised by higher than normal levels of eosinophils in the blood. It can be associated with allergies, asthma, autoimmune diseases, parasitic infections, and certain cancers.