Eosinophil count (serum-based differential blood analysis)
This test measures the number of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, in your blood. Eosinophils help fight infections and respond to allergies and inflammation.
["Eosinophils help protect your body against parasites and allergic reactions, but elevated levels may signal underlying conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 109361-6
- Short code
- E histolyt IgG Msmt Ser
- Synonyms
- E histolyt IgG Msmt Ser
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82784
- 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 this test to investigate symptoms like persistent itching, skin rashes, asthma, or chronic sinusitis. It can also help diagnose conditions such as allergies, parasitic infections, or certain autoimmune diseases.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The test is quick and typically done at a lab or clinic.
Possible Results and Their Meaning
Results are reported as the absolute count of eosinophils per microliter (µL) of blood. High levels (elevated eosinophil count) may indicate allergies, infections, or inflammatory conditions. Low levels may suggest immune suppression or other health concerns.
Common Conditions Linked to Eosinophil Levels
Elevated eosinophil counts can be associated with allergies, asthma, parasitic infections, certain cancers (like Hodgkin lymphoma), or inflammatory diseases. Low levels may occur with stress, certain medications, or immune disorders.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Eosinophil level
Frequently asked questions
What does an elevated eosinophil count mean?
Can diet or lifestyle affect eosinophil levels?
The frequency depends on your symptoms and medical history. Your doctor may recommend retesting if you have ongoing allergic symptoms, chronic conditions, or if you’re being treated for a suspected infection.
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