The role of eosinophils (EOS) in the body
Eosinophils are specialized white blood cells (1-5% of WBC), the main ‘fighters’ against parasites and regulators of allergic reactions. They contain granules with proteinsProteins are high-molecular organic substances consisting of alpha-amino acids linked in a chain by a peptide bond. In living organisms, the amino acid composition of proteins is determined by the genetic code. During synthesis, 20 standard amino acids are used in most cases. Many combinations of them determine the great diversity of properties of protein molecules. Proteins play a key role in the immune response and can perform transport, storage, catalytic, structural, and receptor functions. Proteins are an important part of the nutrition of animals and humans. The main sources of proteins are meat, poultry, fish, milk, nuts, legumes, and grains. that are toxic to parasites.
Key features:
- Antiparasitic protection (helminths, protozoa)
- Participation in allergic reactions
- Regulation of inflammation
- Impact on healing processes
- Antitumor activity
Norm of eosinophils in the blood test
| Parameter | Absolute value (×10⁹/L) | Percentage of WBC |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | 0.02–0.5 | 0.5–5% |
| Children | 0.05–0.7 | 1–7% |
| Newborns | 0.02–0.85 | 1–8% |
Note: The level may fluctuate during the day (maximum at night).
Reduced eosinophils (Eosinopenia)
Critical level: <0.01 ×10⁹/L
Main reasons:
- Acute stress
- Bacterial infections
- Taking corticosteroids
- Cushing’s Syndrome
- Acute appendicitis
Symptoms:
There are no specific symptoms, but it may occur:
- Aggravation of the course of allergies
- Reduced parasite resistance
- General weakness
Elevated eosinophils (Eosinophilia)
Degrees of severity:
- Light weight: 0.5-1.5 ×10⁹/l
- Moderate: 1.5-5 × 10⁹/l
- Expressed: >5 × 10⁹/l
Main reasons:
- Allergic diseases (asthma, pollinosis)
- Parasitic infestations
- Autoimmune diseases
- Hematological diseases
- Oncological processes
Typical symptoms:
- Skin rashes, itching
- Cough, bronchospasm
- Gastrointestinal tract damage (diarrhea, pain)
- Heart disease (Leffler’s endocarditis)
- Neurological disorders
What should I do if there are deviations?
For eosinophilia:
- Analysis of feces for worm eggs
- Allergy tests (IgE general)
- X-ray of the lungs (Leffler’s syndrome)
- Tissue biopsy at persistent elevation >1.5 × 10⁹/l
- Consultation with a hematologist at a level >5 × 10⁹/l
With eosinopenia:
- Exclusion of acute infection
- Evaluation of drug therapy
- Control analysis after 2 weeks
Important: Eosinophilia >20% requires urgent examination to rule out hypereosinophilic syndrome – a dangerous condition with damage to internal organs!