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Eosinophil count in stool (qualitative detection of eosinophil-specific markers)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test checks for the presence of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, in your stool. Eosinophils may indicate certain digestive or inflammatory conditions.

Quick summary

["Helps identify possible intestinal issues linked to eosinophils."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
6399-0
Short code
E histolyt Ag Spec IA-aCnc
Synonyms
E histolyt Ag Spec IA-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ia
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 Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss, especially if they suspect conditions like eosinophilic gastroenteritis or inflammatory bowel disease. It may also be used to monitor treatment responses in certain gastrointestinal disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to collect a fresh stool sample in a sterile container. Follow your provider’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.

Sample Collection Process

You’ll likely collect a small amount of stool in a clean container. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis. The test detects specific markers associated with eosinophils, which are white blood cells involved in allergic reactions and inflammation.

What the Results Mean

A positive result indicates the presence of eosinophils in your stool, which may suggest inflammation, allergies, or other gastrointestinal conditions. A negative result means no detectable eosinophils were found in the sample.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Stool eosinophil test

Frequently asked questions

What Does This Test Detect?
This test detects eosinophil-specific markers in stool, which can help diagnose conditions like eosinophilic esophagitis, colitis, or other inflammatory bowel diseases. Eosinophils are often elevated in response to allergies, infections, or chronic inflammation in the digestive tract.
How Is This Test Different from Other Stool Tests?
Unlike general stool tests (e.g., for bacteria or parasites), this test specifically looks for eosinophil markers, which are white blood cells linked to allergic or inflammatory responses in the gut. It’s not a routine screening test but is used in specific clinical scenarios.
Can This Test Be Done at Home?
No, this test requires a lab sample. You’ll need to collect the stool sample in a sterile container and bring it to a lab or clinic for processing.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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