Eosinophil count in whole blood (qualitative or semi-quantitative)
This test measures the presence and level of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell involved in allergic reactions and fighting certain infections.
["Eosinophils help your body respond to allergies and parasitic infections, but high or low levels may signal health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 31381-7
- Short code
- E coli VTN1 Ab Stl-aCnc
- Synonyms
- E coli VTN1 Ab Stl-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- stool
- Container
- Clean container
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 5 g
- Stability
- Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Are Eosinophils?
Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell that play a key role in defending against parasites and managing allergic responses. They release chemicals that help fight infections and reduce inflammation in allergic reactions.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your doctor may order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions such as allergies, asthma, parasitic infections, certain cancers (like leukemia), or autoimmune diseases. It can also help assess how well treatments are working.
How Is the Test Performed?
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then examined under a microscope to count and identify eosinophils. The test can be qualitative (yes/no presence) or semi-quantitative (approximate level).
What Do Results Mean?
Results may indicate an abnormal number of eosinophils, which could suggest an allergic reaction, infection, or other underlying health issue. 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 can rise in response to allergies, parasitic infections, certain cancers, or inflammatory conditions. Persistently high levels may prompt further evaluation for conditions like asthma, eosinophilic esophagitis, or eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis. Low levels may occur with stress, infections, or certain medications.
Short name
Eosinophil test
Frequently asked questions
What causes eosinophils to be high?
What causes eosinophils to be low?
Can lifestyle changes affect eosinophil levels?
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