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Absolute Eosinophil Count

Also known as Total Eosinophil Count

You need to provide

Blood

This test is for

Male, Female

Understanding Absolute Eosinophil Count

What is Absolute Eosinophil Count?

An Absolute Eosinophil Count test measures the number of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, in the blood. This test is a key indicator of certain allergic diseases, infections, etc. in the body. It is often done 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 eosinophil count, also called eosinophilia, may indicate an allergic reaction, a parasitic infection, or a skin disease. Whereas, a lower-than-normal eosinophil count, 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 for an Absolute 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 and formulate an overall treatment plan.

What is Absolute Eosinophil Count used for?

An Absolute 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 an inflammation or infection.
To detect the early stages of Cushing’s disease.
To detect a rare disease known as acute hypereosinophilic syndrome.

What does Absolute Eosinophil Count measure?

An Absolute Eosinophil Count test measures the number of eosinophils in the blood and provides important information about the functioning of the immune system. 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 including the physiological role in organ formation, such as the development of post-gestational mammary glands. Other functions of these cells include movement to the inflammation areas, trapping substances, killing cells, and bactericidal and antiparasitic activities. They also help in the treatment of immediate allergic reactions and modulation of inflammatory responses. By measuring the number of eosinophils in the blood, this test provides important information about the functioning of the immune system.

Interpreting Absolute Eosinophil Count results

Interpretations

The absolute eosinophil count ranges from 0.02 - 0.50 thou/mm3.

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

Frequently Asked Questions about Absolute Eosinophil Count

Q. Which diseases can an AEC test detect?

An AEC test can help identify infections and allergies, causes of inflammation, and other conditions such as autoimmune disorders.

Q. How is an AEC test done?

An AEC 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 an AEC test?

There is usually no risk associated with this test. However, some people may feel a slight sting while the needle is pricked and may experience some bleeding that is normal and usually not bothersome. Rarely some people may experience slight swelling or bruising at the site of the needle prick. Applying ice 3-4 times a day for about a week may help reduce swelling and bruising. If it does not get better, consult your doctor.

Q. What are the reasons for the low eosinophil count?

The reasons for low eosinophil count (eosinophilia) include infections, an allergic reaction, or bone marrow disorders among others.

Q. What are the reasons for the high eosinophil count?

The reasons for high eosinophil count (eosinophilia) include parasitic infections, allergic reactions, autoimmune diseases, blood disorders, etc.

Q. What is an eosinophilic disorder?

Eosinophilic disorder is a condition in which there is increased production of eosinophils on the site of injury. This excess production causes release of toxins, which leads to chronic inflammation. As a result, severe damage is caused to the tissue. Depending upon the site at which the eosinophils are elevated, the conditions are named such as eosinophilic esophagitis (esophagus), eosinophilic gastritis (stomach), eosinophilic gastroenteritis (stomach and small intestine), eosinophilic enteritis (small intestine), eosinophilic colitis (large intestine) and hypereosinophilic syndrome (blood and any organ).

Q. How is the blood sample taken?

The healthcare provider takes a blood sample from the arm. The site from where the blood is to be withdrawn is cleaned with a swab of rubbing alcohol. This is then followed by inserting a small needle which has a tube attached to it for collecting blood. Once the sufficient blood for analysis is withdrawn, the needle is removed. The site is then covered with a gauze pad.

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References

Kovalszki A, Weller PF. Eosinophilia. Prim Care. 2016 Dec; 43:607-617. [Accessed 03 Feb. 2023]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5293177/

Lokwani DP. The ABC of CBC: Interpretation of Complete Blood Count & Histograms. 1st ed. Jaypee Brothers Medical Publishers; 2013.