Differential Eosinophil Count

You need to provide

Blood

This test is for

Male, Female

Test Preparation

No special preparation is required.

Understanding Differential Eosinophil Count

What is Differential Eosinophil Count?

The Differential Eosinophil Count test measures the percentage of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell (WBC), in the blood. This test is a key indicator of certain allergic diseases, infections, etc., in the body. It is often used as part of a complete blood count test that also measures other types of blood cells.

Eosinophils form an integral part of the immune system and help fight off infections. These cells play an important role in inflammatory responses to allergies. A higher-than-normal count of eosinophils, also called eosinophilia, may indicate an allergic reaction, parasitic infection, or skin disease. Whereas, a lower-than-normal count of eosinophils, also called eosinopenia, may indicate excessive stress, overproduction of cortisol hormone, alcohol misuse, or the presence of any other underlying condition.

No special preparation is required before the Differential Eosinophil Count test; eat or drink as per your daily routine. Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between different labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. The results will help them determine your medical condition, make recommendations for lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise, decide whether or not medication will be required to manage your condition, and formulate an overall treatment plan.

What is Differential Eosinophil Count used for?

The Differential Eosinophil Count test can be done:

As part of a complete blood count test to monitor your overall health.
In case of signs or symptoms suggestive of an allergy to one or more substances such as red itchy eyes, coughing, nasal congestion, asthma, dermatitis, or abdominal pain.
To identify the cause of inflammation or infections.
To detect the early stages of Cushing’s disease.
To detect a rare disease known as acute hypereosinophilic syndrome.

What does Differential Eosinophil Count measure?

The Differential Eosinophil Count test measures the proportion of eosinophils in relation to other types of white blood cells (WBC), such as neutrophils, lymphocytes, basophils, and monocytes. Eosinophils originate from bone marrow and have a lifespan of 8-18 hours. These cells are involved in fighting certain types of infections and responding to allergic reactions in the body. The eosinophils have varied functions that include the physiological role in organ formation, such as the development of post-gestational mammary glands. Other functions include its movement to the areas of inflammation, trapping the substances, and killing the cells with bactericidal and antiparasitic activities. It also helps in the treatment of immediate allergic reactions and modulation of inflammatory responses.

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Differential Eosinophil Count

Frequently Asked Questions about Differential Eosinophil Count

Q. Why is the differential eosinophil count test done?

The differential count eosinophil test is typically done to assess the immune system function. It helps diagnose a number of conditions such as infections, inflammation, autoimmune diseases, and certain types of cancers.

Q. How is the differential eosinophil count test done?

The differential eosinophil count test is done using a sample of blood that is withdrawn from a patient’s vein. The blood sample is collected in a vial and sent to the lab for analysis.

Q. Is there any risk associated with the differential eosinophil count test?

There is no risk associated with this test. However, as a needle is used to prick and take out a blood sample, some may experience bleeding, swelling, or blood collection under the skin, which is usually self-limiting. If these symptoms do not subside, consult your doctor.

Q. What does the high differential eosinophil count tell about my health?

The high differential eosinophil count, also known as eosinophilia, may indicate the presence of an allergy or other infection. This condition may also be associated with autoimmune diseases and certain types of cancer among others. On the basis of the severity of eosinophilia and its underlying cause, the doctor may suggest some additional tests.

Q. What does the low differential eosinophil count tell about my health?

The low differential eosinophil count, also known as eosinopenia, is less common and may be associated with stress, use of certain medications, or infections. Usually, a slightly lower count of eosinophil in the blood is not a cause of concern and may not require prompt treatment.

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