Eosinophil count (absolute)
This test measures the number of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, in your blood. Eosinophils help fight certain infections and respond to allergies and inflammation.
["Eosinophil counts help diagnose and monitor conditions like allergies, infections, and certain blood disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 87374-5
- Short code
- E coli K99 DNA Islt Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- E coli K99 DNA Islt Ql 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
What Are Eosinophils?
Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell that play a role in defending the body against parasites, allergies, and some infections. They release chemicals to attack harmful substances and help control inflammation.
When Might You Need This Test?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like persistent itching, skin rashes, asthma, or unexplained weight loss. It’s also used to check for conditions like eosinophilic esophagitis, certain cancers, or reactions to medications.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab, where it’s analyzed to count the number of eosinophils. The results are compared to standard reference ranges to determine if your levels are high or low.
What Do the Results Mean?
High eosinophil counts may indicate allergies, parasitic infections, certain cancers (like lymphoma), or inflammatory conditions. Low counts might suggest immune suppression or other blood disorders. Your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Eosinophils serve as biomarkers for diagnosing and guiding treatment of allergic reactions, parasitic infections, and inflammatory or neoplastic conditions. Elevated levels often correlate with chronic conditions like asthma, eosinophilic gastrointestinal diseases, or certain autoimmune disorders.
Short name
Eosinophil count
Frequently asked questions
Why might my eosinophil count be checked regularly?
What causes eosinophil counts to rise?
Can I do anything to lower my eosinophil count?
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