Eosinophils (EOS)

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 proteins that are toxic to parasites.

Key features:

  1. Antiparasitic protection (helminths, protozoa)
  2. Participation in allergic reactions
  3. Regulation of inflammation
  4. Impact on healing processes
  5. Antitumor activity

Norm of eosinophils in the blood test

ParameterAbsolute value (×10⁹/L)Percentage of WBC
Adults0.02–0.50.5–5%
Children0.05–0.71–7%
Newborns0.02–0.851–8%

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:

  1. Allergic diseases (asthma, pollinosis)
  2. Parasitic infestations
  3. Autoimmune diseases
  4. Hematological diseases
  5. 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:

  1. Analysis of feces for worm eggs
  2. Allergy tests (IgE general)
  3. X-ray of the lungs (Leffler’s syndrome)
  4. Tissue biopsy at persistent elevation >1.5 × 10⁹/l
  5. Consultation with a hematologist at a level >5 × 10⁹/l

With eosinopenia:

  1. Exclusion of acute infection
  2. Evaluation of drug therapy
  3. Control analysis after 2 weeks

Important: Eosinophilia >20% requires urgent examination to rule out hypereosinophilic syndrome – a dangerous condition with damage to internal organs!