Eosinophil count in serum/plasma (qualitative or semi-quantitative screening)
This test checks the presence or level of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, in your blood. Eosinophils help fight infections and respond to allergies or inflammatory conditions.
["Eosinophil screening helps identify potential allergic reactions, infections, or inflammatory diseases."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 74354-2
- Short code
- Epi Cells NFr Spt
- Synonyms
- Epi Cells NFr Spt
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- sputum
- Container
- Sterile sputum container
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.8
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85610
- SNOMED
- 396252006
- Specimen volume
- 3-5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like persistent itching, skin rashes, asthma, or unexplained allergies. It could also be used to monitor conditions like parasitic infections, certain cancers, or autoimmune disorders.
What Does the Test Involve?
A blood sample is taken, typically from your arm. The lab then examines the blood under a microscope to count eosinophils. The result may be qualitative (present or not) or semi-quantitative (approximate level).
What Are Common Causes of Elevated Eosinophils?
Elevated eosinophils can occur due to allergies, asthma, parasitic infections, certain cancers (like lymphoma or leukemia), inflammatory conditions, or reactions to medications.
What Are Common Causes of Normal or Low Eosinophils?
Eosinophils are usually low in cases of acute infections (like bacterial infections), severe stress, or during recovery from illness. They may also be low in certain genetic conditions or with certain medications.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Eosinophil counts can signal underlying conditions that require further investigation. High levels may prompt additional testing for allergies, infections, or autoimmune diseases. Low levels may not indicate a problem but could be part of a broader blood analysis for other conditions.
Short name
Eosinophil screening
Frequently asked questions
What does a high eosinophil count mean?
Results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your lab. Your healthcare provider will contact you with the findings.
Is there any risk or discomfort with 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