Eosinophil count (qualitative, manual differential blood smear evaluation)
This test checks the number of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, in your blood using a manual microscopic examination. Eosinophils help fight certain infections and respond to allergic reactions.
["Eosinophils can signal allergic or inflammatory conditions, but their presence alone doesn’t diagnose a specific problem."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 71632-4
- Short code
- Eosinophil NFr.DF Prt Manual
- Synonyms
- Eosinophil NFr.DF Prt 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 doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like persistent itching, skin rashes, asthma, or unexplained allergies. It could also be used to monitor conditions like asthma, parasitic infections, or certain cancers.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm or hand to draw blood. The blood sample is then examined under a microscope by a trained lab technician.
What the Results Mean
Results are reported as a qualitative assessment (e.g., ‘elevated,’ ‘normal,’ or ‘low’ eosinophil count). High levels may indicate allergies, infections, or other immune-related conditions. Low levels might suggest immune suppression or other health concerns.
Common Conditions Linked to Eosinophil Levels
Elevated eosinophils are often seen in allergic reactions, parasitic infections, certain lung diseases (like asthma or eosinophilic pneumonia), or autoimmune disorders. Low eosinophils are less common but may occur with certain infections or immune disorders.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Eosinophils in Diagnosis and Management
Short name
Eosinophil test (qualitative)
Frequently asked questions
What causes high eosinophil counts?
Can low eosinophil counts be dangerous?
How often should I get 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