Eosinophil Count

Test ID: 

704378

CPT code:

85048

Synonyms:

Absolute Eosinophil Count
Total Eosinophil Count

Clinical 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.

Test Information:

Toxocaral disease (visceral larva migrans) is a typical parasitic disease in which eosinophil counts (eosinophils >30% on differential) are usually elevated. Taylor et al1 point out, however, that up to 27% of children with toxocariasis have normal eosinophil counts. Thus, normal eosinophil counts do not rule out toxocaral disease or other parasitic infestations. The cytokine interleukin 5 appears to induce eosinophilia in patients with certain parasitic diseases

Specimen Type:

Whole blood

Requested Volume: 

Tube fill capacity

Minimum Volume: 

Container Type: 

Lavender-top (EDTA) tube

Collection:

Invert tube 8 to 10 times immediately after tube is filled at the time of collection.

Storage Instructions:

Maintain specimen at room temperature.

Stability Requirements:

Expected Turnaround Time:

1 to 2 Days

Rejection Criteria

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