Absolute Eosinophil Count Test

What is the absolute eosinophil count?

Absolute eosinophil count (AEC) is a type of blood test that measures the number of eosinophil cells present in a sample of blood. Eosinophils are a type of white blood cells that are involved in the body's immune response to parasites and allergies.

An elevated AEC may indicate an allergic reaction, a parasitic infection, or certain cancers. A low AEC may indicate certain types of infections or bone marrow disorders. The test is typically ordered by a healthcare provider when a patient is experiencing symptoms that may be related to an allergic reaction or parasitic infection.

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What are the uses of the absolute eosinophil count test?

The absolute eosinophil count (AEC) test is primarily used to help diagnose and monitor certain medical conditions, including:

Allergies : An elevated AEC can be a sign of allergic reactions, such as asthma, allergic rhinitis, and atopic dermatitis.
Parasitic infections : A high AEC can indicate a parasitic infection, such as intestinal worms or schistosomiasis.
Autoimmune diseases : Some autoimmune diseases, such as eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA), can cause an increase in eosinophils in the blood.
Drug reactions : Some medications can cause an increase in eosinophil count as an adverse reaction.
Blood disorders : Certain types of blood cancers, such as chronic eosinophilic leukemia, can cause an increase in eosinophil count.
Monitoring treatments : AEC can be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatments for the above conditions, as well as other conditions where eosinophil count is relevant.

Overall, the AEC test is a useful tool in diagnosing and managing conditions related to eosinophil count and can help healthcare providers make informed decisions about treatment options for their patients.

What happens in an absolute eosinophil count test?

During an absolute eosinophil count (AEC) test, a sample of blood is collected from a vein in the arm using a needle. The blood sample is taken to a lab for analysis.

In the laboratory, the blood sample is analyzed using an automated machine called a hematology analyzer, which counts the number of eosinophil cells present in the blood. The results of the AEC test are typically reported in cells per microliter (μL) of blood.

Understanding absolute eosinophil count test results

The results of an absolute eosinophil count (AEC) test are reported as the number of eosinophil cells per microliter (μL) of blood. Normal AEC ranges can vary slightly depending on the laboratory that does the test but generally falls within the following ranges:

Adults: 30 to 350 cells/μL
Children: 50 to 500 cells/μL

An elevated AEC may indicate an allergic reaction, a parasitic infection, or certain cancers. The severity of the elevation may provide additional information on the severity of the condition.

A low AEC may indicate certain types of infections or bone marrow disorders. As with an elevated AEC, the severity of the decrease may provide additional information on the severity of the condition.

A healthcare provider should do the interpretation of AEC test results, as results must be considered in the context of the patient's medical history, symptoms, and other diagnostic tests.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. How is the AEC test performed?

The AEC test is performed by collecting a sample of blood from a vein in the arm. The blood sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis using an automated machine called a hematology analyzer.

2. Is there any preparation required before the AEC test?

Generally, no special preparation is required for the AEC test. However, patients should follow any instructions provided by their healthcare provider or laboratory, such as fasting before the test or avoiding certain medications that may affect the results.

3. Is the AEC test painful?

The AEC test involves a needle stick to collect the blood sample, which may cause mild discomfort. However, most people tolerate the test well, and discomfort typically subsides quickly.

4. How long does it take to get AEC test results?

The time it takes to get AEC test results can vary depending on the laboratory which is conducting the test and the specific circumstances of the test. However, in general, results are usually available within a few days.

5. What are the risks associated with the AEC test?

The AEC test is a safe and routine blood test. However, as with any blood test, there is a slight risk of bleeding, bruising, or infection in the area where the needle is inserted. These risks are typically very low and can be minimized by following the instructions from the healthcare provider or laboratory.

6. Can the AEC test be done at home?

No, the AEC test cannot be done at home. It must be performed by a healthcare provider or in the laboratory using specialized equipment and techniques.

7. What is the normal range for absolute eosinophils?

The normal range for absolute eosinophil count (AEC) in peripheral blood is typically 0 to 500 cells/microL or less than 0.5 x 10^9/L. However, it's important to note that normal ranges may vary slightly depending on the laboratory performing the test and the population being tested.

8. What are the symptoms of high eosinophils?

Symptoms of high eosinophils are weight loss, fevers, night sweats, fatigue, cough, chest pain, swelling, stomachache, rash, pain, weakness, confusion, and coma.

9. What is the cost of the AEC test?

The cost of the AEC test is approximately between Rs. 100 to Rs. 300. It can vary from place to place.

10. Where can I get AEC test?

You can get an AEC test at Medicover Hospitals.