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Eosinophil count (absolute)

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

This test measures the number of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, in your blood. Eosinophils help your body fight infections and respond to allergies and inflammation.

Quick summary

["Eosinophils help protect your body from harmful substances and infections."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
80144-9
Short code
EME Ur Ql Scn
Synonyms
EME Ur Ql Scn
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
screen
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What Are Eosinophils?

Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell that play a key role in defending your body against parasites, allergies, and certain infections. They release chemicals to attack these threats and help control inflammation.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Your doctor may order an eosinophil count to diagnose or monitor conditions like allergies, asthma, parasitic infections, certain autoimmune diseases, or reactions to medications.

When Might You Get This Test?

This test is often performed as part of a complete blood count (CBC) or if you have symptoms such as persistent itching, skin rashes, difficulty breathing, or unexplained weight loss.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this test. A blood sample will be drawn from a vein, usually in your arm, by a healthcare professional.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Eosinophils can rise or fall depending on underlying health conditions. Elevated levels may indicate allergic reactions, parasitic infections, or certain lung diseases, while low levels might suggest immune deficiencies or other systemic issues.

Short name

Eosinophil count

Frequently asked questions

What causes eosinophil levels to be high?
High eosinophil counts can be caused by allergies, asthma, parasitic infections, certain autoimmune diseases, or reactions to medications. Chronic conditions like inflammatory bowel disease may also lead to elevated levels.
What causes eosinophil levels to be low?
Low eosinophil counts can result from immune system disorders, certain medications, or conditions affecting bone marrow function. Rarely, it may be due to genetic factors or severe infections.
How long does it take to get results?
Results from this test are typically available within one to three business days, depending on your lab’s processing time.
  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