Eosinophil granulocytes are a type of white blood cell that play a crucial role in the immune system. Their main function is to help the body fight off parasitic infections, but they are also involved in allergic reactions and certain inflammatory processes. The presence and proportion of eosinophils in a blood test can provide valuable information about the state of the body.
When are eosinophils considered high?
A higher-than-normal eosinophil count is called eosinophilia. Several conditions can cause this, such as:
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Allergic diseases: hay fever, asthma, or eczema.
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Parasitic infections: in cases of worm infestations, the immune system activates eosinophils more strongly.
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Inflammatory and autoimmune diseases: such as certain connective tissue disorders.
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Medication side effects: some drugs can increase eosinophil levels as an adverse reaction.
A high eosinophil count is not a disease in itself, but rather a sign that there may be an underlying condition that needs attention.
What does a low eosinophil count indicate?
An unusually low eosinophil level is known as eosinopenia. This finding is generally less significant and often does not have serious consequences. Possible causes include:
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Stress or acute infections: in these situations, the immune system may prioritize other types of white blood cells.
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Corticosteroid treatment: these medications can artificially lower eosinophil counts.
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Certain acute illnesses: conditions where the body mobilizes other immune cells instead of eosinophils.
In most cases, low eosinophil levels are not a major concern, but they should always be interpreted in the context of the individual’s overall health and medical history.
Why context matters
Eosinophil values alone rarely provide a complete picture. Doctors usually assess them alongside other blood parameters and clinical symptoms. For example, high eosinophils in a patient with asthma might confirm an allergic trigger, while low levels in someone taking corticosteroids may simply reflect the effect of medication.
Understanding these values helps guide further tests or treatments and can support a more accurate diagnosis.
Source: https://napivizit.hu/eozinofil-eosinophil-granulocita-mit-jelent-a-magas-es-az-alacsony-ertek/
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