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Serum or plasma concentration of eosinophil cationic protein (ECP)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures a protein produced by eosinophils, a type of white blood cell involved in allergic reactions and inflammation. It can help assess conditions affecting these cells.

Quick summary

["Eosinophil cationic protein may indicate inflammation or allergic activity in your body."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
8814-6
Short code
RV EF 2D Echo est
Synonyms
RV EF 2D Echo est
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
d-echo-visual-estimate
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 evaluate conditions such as allergic reactions, asthma, eosinophilic esophagitis, or other inflammatory or immune-related disorders. It can also help monitor treatment responses in certain chronic conditions.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is typically needed. You may have blood drawn from a vein in your arm, or a urine sample may be collected depending on the clinical indication. Always follow your provider’s instructions for fasting or other preparations if directed.

What the Test Results Mean

Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider based on your medical history, symptoms, and other test results. Elevated levels may suggest active inflammation or allergic activity, while normal levels do not rule out these conditions entirely.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used to monitor conditions like severe allergic reactions, eosinophilic disorders, parasitic infections, or certain types of lung diseases. It may also be part of a broader evaluation for unexplained symptoms of itching, skin rashes, or persistent inflammation.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Eosinophil Cationic Protein (ECP)

Frequently asked questions

What causes elevated ECP levels?
Elevated ECP levels can result from conditions that trigger eosinophil activity, such as allergies, asthma, certain infections (e.g., parasitic), or inflammatory diseases. It may also appear in autoimmune disorders or after exposure to irritants.
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your diagnosis and treatment plan. Your healthcare provider will determine how often to repeat this test, often based on symptoms, response to treatment, or other clinical factors.
Can diet or medications affect ECP levels?
Dietary changes or certain medications (e.g., steroids, antihistamines) may influence eosinophil activity indirectly, but they do not typically alter ECP levels directly. Always discuss potential interactions with your provider.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

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