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Eosinophil Count (Peripheral Blood)

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 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
14709-0
Short code
Eosinophil NFr Bronch Manual
Synonyms
Eosinophil NFr Bronch Manual
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
manual-count
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 order this test to check for conditions like allergies, asthma, parasitic infections, or certain types of cancers. It can also help evaluate symptoms such as persistent itching, skin rashes, or unexplained fatigue.

What to Expect Before the Test

You won’t need any special preparation. This test is typically done by taking a small blood sample from a vein in your arm. It usually takes a few minutes and is generally painless.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to standard ranges for healthy adults. High levels may indicate allergies, infections, or inflammatory conditions, while very low levels might suggest immune system issues or certain medications.

Common Conditions Affecting Eosinophil Levels

Elevated eosinophils can be linked to allergies, asthma, parasitic diseases, or autoimmune disorders. Low eosinophil counts may be associated with conditions like severe infections, certain cancers, or immune deficiencies.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Elevated eosinophils can signal allergic reactions, chronic inflammatory diseases, or parasitic infections, while low levels may indicate immune suppression or other underlying health concerns. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider for personalized interpretation.

Short name

Eosinophil Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes eosinophils to be high in my blood?
High eosinophil counts can result from allergies, asthma, parasitic infections, certain cancers (like lymphoma), or autoimmune diseases. Your doctor may also check for conditions like inflammatory bowel disease or connective tissue disorders.
What does it mean if my eosinophil count is low?
Low eosinophil counts might suggest immune system issues, severe infections, or certain medications that suppress white blood cell production. It could also be related to conditions like aplastic anemia or chronic diseases.
Can diet or lifestyle affect eosinophil levels?
While diet and lifestyle factors like stress or exercise may influence overall immune function, they don’t directly alter eosinophil counts. Your doctor will consider all factors when evaluating your results.
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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