Eosinophil Count (Manual Differential Blood Count)
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 from harmful substances and infections."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 714-6
- Short code
- Eosinophil NFr Bld Manual
- Synonyms
- Eosinophil NFr Bld Manual
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- manual-count
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Does This Test Measure?
Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell that play a role in defending your body against parasites, allergies, and certain infections. This test helps determine their count, which can be useful for diagnosing conditions like allergies, asthma, parasitic infections, or certain cancers.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like persistent coughing, skin rashes, digestive issues, or unexplained weight loss. It can also be part of a routine blood check or to monitor conditions like eosinophilic esophagitis or certain types of leukemia.
When Might You Get This Test?
You might receive this test if you have symptoms related to allergies, infections, or inflammatory conditions. It may also be part of a broader blood test to check overall health or diagnose specific medical issues.
How Is This Test Done?
A small amount of blood is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood sample is then examined under a microscope by a trained technician to count the eosinophils among other white blood cells. This process is manual, meaning it involves direct visual inspection rather than automated machines.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
High eosinophil levels may indicate conditions such as allergies, asthma, parasitic infections, or certain autoimmune diseases. Low eosinophil levels might suggest immune suppression or other underlying health issues. Your healthcare provider will interpret the results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Short name
Eosinophil Blood Test
Frequently asked questions
What are eosinophils, and why are they important?
How long does it take to get the results of this test?
Can I eat or drink anything before this test?
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