Eosinophil Count
Also known as: Absolute Eosinophil Count, Total Eosinophil Count
Use
Usually increased in allergy, parasitic infestations, tuberculosis, brucellosis, collagen disease, Hodgkin disease, myeloproliferative diseases, and the acute hypereosinophilic syndrome; increased also in angioneurotic edema, dermatitis, thymic disorders, radiotherapy, splenectomy, convalescence from a febrile illness, and hypoadrenocorticism (Addison disease). Decreased eosinophils occurs in adrenal cortical hyperplasia (Cushing syndrome), cortisone therapy, hormone-secreting tumors, intermenstrual period, acute and chronic inflammation, and anoxia.
Special Instructions
The Eosinophil Count is performed using an automated cell counter and requires a whole blood specimen collected in a lavender-top (EDTA) tube. Invert the tube 8 to 10 times immediately after filling. Maintain at room temperature and test within specific stability periods to ensure accurate results.
Limitations
Normal eosinophil counts do not rule out conditions like toxocaral disease or other parasitic infestations. Additionally, while the acute hypereosinophilic syndrome is associated with increased eosinophils, it requires comprehensive clinical evaluation and diagnosis. Eosinophilia associated with certain diseases might also depend on the regulation of cytokines like interleukin 5. The test does not differentiate various causes of eosinophilia, nor does it address related clinical symptoms.
Methodology
Automated Analyzer (Hematology)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 711-2
- 711-2
Result Turnaround Time
1 day
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Whole Blood
Volume
Tube fill capacity
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL (500 μL for Pediatric Microtainer capillary tubes)
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA) tube
Collection Instructions
Invert tube 8 to 10 times immediately after tube is filled at the time of collection.
Storage Instructions
Maintain specimen at room temperature.
Causes for Rejection
Hemolysis; clotted specimen; quantity not sufficient for analysis; specimen diluted or contaminated with IV fluid; anticoagulant other than EDTA; specimen received with plasma removed; improper labeling; transport tube with whole blood
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 1 day |
| Refrigerated | 3 days |
| Frozen | Unstable |
Other tests from different labs that may be relevant