: Eosinophil Count, Manual Method
: An eosinophil count measures the number of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, in a blood sample. A manual count means a laboratory professional examines the sample under a microscope rather than using an automated instrument.
[": A manual eosinophil count helps assess allergic, inflammatory, and certain blood or immune conditions by directly counting these white blood cells."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 68399-5
- Short code
- Eosinophil # Prt Manual
- Synonyms
- Eosinophil # 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
: What the Test Measures
: Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell involved in fighting parasites and in allergic and inflammatory responses. This test determines how many eosinophils are present in the blood sample, often by examining a stained blood smear under a microscope.
: Why a Manual Count
: A manual method is performed by a trained laboratory professional who visually identifies and counts eosinophils on a prepared slide. It may be used when an automated result needs confirmation, when the sample is unusual, or when the laboratory requires direct visual review.
: What to Expect
: The test requires a blood sample, usually collected from a vein in your arm. The sample is processed and stained, then reviewed under a microscope. Preparation and timing are generally determined by your healthcare provider.
: Interpreting Results
: Your provider interprets the eosinophil count alongside your symptoms, other blood cell counts, and additional tests. Results that are higher or lower than expected can occur for many reasons, so the number alone does not diagnose a condition.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
: Eosinophil counts are clinically significant in evaluating allergic disorders, parasitic infections, drug reactions, and some inflammatory or blood-related conditions. Both elevated and decreased values can provide useful information, but they must be interpreted in the context of the full blood count and the patient's clinical picture.
Short name
: Eosinophils, Manual
Frequently asked questions
: Does this test require special preparation?
: Is a manual eosinophil count more accurate than an automated count?
: Can I interpret my eosinophil count on my own?
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