Eosinophils

What is Eosinophils?

Eosinophils are white blood cells specialized for defense against parasites and involved in allergic responses. They comprise 1-4% of WBCs and contain granules with cytotoxic proteins (major basic protein, eosinophil peroxidase) that destroy parasites but can also damage host tissues in allergic and autoimmune conditions.

What might a high or low Eosinophils mean?

Raised eosinophils are commonly associated with allergic conditions, parasitic infection, and drug reactions, and less often with eosinophilic disorders. They are frequently tracked in asthma, and tissue eosinophils are involved in conditions such as eosinophilic esophagitis.

What is the typical reference range for Eosinophils?

The general-population reference range shown here is 0 – 0.5 10x9/L. Reference ranges describe the general population and are not a personal target — discuss your results with your physician.

What can affect Eosinophils?

It may be higher with: Allergic diseases (asthma, eczema, allergic rhinitis), Parasitic infections (helminths), Drug reactions, Eosinophilic esophagitis, Autoimmune conditions, Adrenal insufficiency, Hypereosinophilic syndrome, Some cancers (Hodgkin lymphoma). It may be lower with: Corticosteroids (potent eosinophil suppressors), Acute bacterial infection, Cushing's syndrome, Acute stress.