Eosinophil count (absolute)
This test measures the number of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, in your blood. Eosinophils help fight infections caused by parasites and play a role in allergic reactions.
["Eosinophils help your body defend against certain infections and allergies, and this test helps doctors assess their levels."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 94632-7
- Short code
- E coli K99 DNA Ct Spec Qn NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- E coli K99 DNA Ct Spec Qn NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Doctors may order an eosinophil count to investigate symptoms like persistent itching, skin rashes, asthma, or unexplained allergies. It can also help diagnose conditions such as parasitic infections, certain types of cancer (like Hodgkin lymphoma), or autoimmune disorders.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this blood test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw a blood sample, similar to other routine blood tests.
What the Results Mean
Elevated eosinophil levels may suggest allergic reactions, infections, or certain inflammatory or autoimmune conditions. Lower-than-normal levels might indicate stress, certain infections, or other underlying health issues.
Common Conditions Linked to Eosinophil Counts
High eosinophil counts can be linked to allergies, asthma, parasitic infections, or conditions like eosinophilic esophagitis. Low counts may be associated with stress, viral infections, or other systemic illnesses.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated eosinophil counts can indicate conditions requiring further medical evaluation, such as chronic allergic diseases or certain cancers. Low levels may not always signal a problem but could prompt additional testing if symptoms persist.
Short name
Eosinophil blood count
Frequently asked questions
What causes eosinophils to be higher than usual in my blood?
How long will it take to get my results?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy