An elevated level of eosinophils (EOS) in the body can often indicate that the body is fighting an allergic reaction or infection. However, excessively high EOS levels can be a sign of serious health problems. Low levels, however, can indicate problems with white blood cell production. Certain medical conditions and medications can cause changes in eosinophil levels. Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell produced in the bone marrow that helps the body fight diseases such as parasitic infections, allergic reactions, or cancer. An eosinophil test measures the number of white blood cells called eosinophils in the blood and is usually performed as part of a complete blood count (CBC).

A complete blood count (CBC) calculates the eosinophil percentage by multiplying the total white blood cell (WBC) count by the eosinophil percentage. Abnormalities in eosinophil counts may indicate an infection in the body.

Why is the eosinophil (EOS) test performed?

The eosinophil (EOS) test, usually performed with a complete blood count, is used to determine the number of eosinophils in the body. This test is used to determine the level of white blood cells, which are effective in fighting disease. It can also be used to diagnose and monitor the following conditions:

• Allergic diseases: The eosinophil test can be used to determine eosinophil levels in patients with allergic reactions such as allergic rhinitis and atopic dermatitis. Elevated eosinophil levels may indicate the presence of allergic reactions.
• Parasitic infections: Parasitic infections can increase eosinophil levels in the body. This test can be used to detect the presence of parasitic infections.
• Autoimmune diseases that affect the immune system: Some autoimmune diseases affect the immune system and can cause changes in eosinophil levels. Eosinophil testing can be used to diagnose such diseases and monitor them during treatment.
• Cancer diagnosis: The eosinophil test can also be used to diagnose certain types of cancer, such as lymphoma and leukemia. However, this test is not solely definitive and is evaluated in conjunction with other tests.

These tests are performed to guide healthcare professionals in the diagnosis and treatment of specific health conditions. Eosinophil testing and other medical evaluations should be considered together, particularly considering symptoms and clinical circumstances.

Normal eosinophil value

The normal value of eosinophils in the blood is usually

Elevated eosinophil counts are generally classified as mild if they are between 500 and 1500, moderate if they are between 1500 and 5000, and severe if they are higher than 5000. However, normal value ranges can vary by laboratory.

The specified value ranges can be as follows:

• Slightly elevated value : 500 – 1500 cells/mcL
• Medium high value: 1500 – 5000 cells/mcL
• Severely elevated value: 5000 or more cells/mcL

However, each laboratory may use its own reference ranges; therefore, the laboratory's stated normal values ​​should be considered when interpreting test results. Additionally, other clinical findings and the patient's general health should be considered when evaluating changes in eosinophil levels.

What is the high eosinophil (EOS) count?

High eosinophil (EOS) levels are usually seen when the complete blood count (CBC) value is 1500 or higher. This may indicate that the body is fighting diseases such as parasitic infections, allergic reactions, or cancer.

High eosinophil levels can sometimes be associated with health problems such as:

• Parasitic Infections: Infections with parasites can lead to increased levels of eosinophils in the body.
• Allergic Reactions: Allergic conditions such as allergic rhinitis, asthma, and atopic dermatitis may cause an increase in eosinophil levels.
• Cancer: Some types of cancer, particularly lymphoma and some types of leukemia, can lead to high eosinophil levels.

High eosinophil levels often occur as part of a response that stimulates the body's immune system. However, high eosinophil levels alone are not sufficient to establish a specific diagnosis. Therefore, high eosinophil levels should be evaluated with other medical tests and clinical evaluations. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for any diagnosis.

Common causes of elevated eosinophil (EOS) levels 

• Allergic disorders: Allergic reactions such as asthma and hay fever can lead to increased levels of eosinophils in the body.
• Hypereosinophilic syndromes: Conditions such as acute hypereosinophilic syndrome can cause markedly elevated eosinophil levels.
• Infections: Infections caused by certain parasites, fungi, or microbes can contribute to increased eosinophil levels.
• Autoimmune diseases: Some autoimmune diseases can lead to increased levels of eosinophils in the body.
• Gastrointestinal issues: Certain digestive disorders, such as celiac disease and Crohn's disease, can contribute to elevated eosinophil levels.
• Skin problems: Some skin conditions, such as eczema, can cause increased eosinophil levels.
• Blood disorders and cancer: Blood cancers such as leukemia or cancers of the lymph nodes such as lymphoma can cause elevated eosinophil levels.
• Medications: Some medications can lead to increased levels of eosinophils in the body.

Elevated eosinophils often occur as a response of the immune system. However, the cause of this condition requires detailed evaluation for a specific diagnosis. Elevated eosinophils should be evaluated in conjunction with a person's medical history, symptoms, and other tests. Therefore, a personalized evaluation by a healthcare professional is important.

What is low eosinophil (EOS) count? What causes it?

Low eosinophil count (EOS), or eosinopenia, refers to a condition in which eosinophil levels in the bloodstream are below normal. Generally, low eosinophil counts can indicate that the body is struggling with a specific condition or may indicate a health problem. Some conditions that can cause low eosinophils include:

• Steroid use: Steroid medications can cause eosinophil levels to drop. Long-term steroid use can reduce the number of eosinophils in the body.
• Stress: Intense and prolonged stress can lead to a decrease in eosinophil levels.
• Low blood sugar : Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can cause a decrease in eosinophil levels.
• Alcohol poisoning: Excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to decreased eosinophil levels.
• Birth control pills: Some women may experience a decrease in eosinophil levels when they use birth control pills.
• Cushing's syndrome: Cushing's syndrome has been associated with elevated levels of the hormone cortisol and can cause low eosinophil levels.
• Liver and kidney problems: Some liver or kidney diseases can lead to low eosinophil levels.
• Medication use: Some medications containing estrogen or corticosteroids can reduce eosinophil levels.

A decrease in eosinophil levels can often be an indicator of a medical condition. However, low eosinophil counts alone do not constitute a diagnosis. If in doubt, it is important to obtain a more comprehensive evaluation and order other medical tests from a doctor.

How to reduce eosinophil (EOS) levels?

Because elevated eosinophil counts (EOS) are often a sign of an underlying condition, it's more important to treat the underlying cause rather than directly lowering eosinophil counts. However, some general tips to help keep eosinophil levels under control include:

• Balanced diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables can be beneficial. It's also important to avoid certain foods that are acidic, processed, or can cause allergic reactions.
• Immune-supporting foods: It's important to consume foods that can help boost the immune system. These nutrients can include foods like vitamin C, probiotics, and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Stress management: Stress can affect the immune system and increase eosinophil levels. Stress management techniques like yoga, meditation, or breathing exercises can help reduce stress.
• Reducing smoking and alcohol use: Not smoking and limiting excessive alcohol consumption can have positive effects on overall health.
• Avoiding allergens: Reducing contact with allergens or taking precautions can help keep allergic reactions, and therefore eosinophil levels, under control.
• Following doctor's instructions: If you have seasonal allergies or are prescribed medications for a specific condition, it is important to continue using medications as recommended by your doctor.
• Review medications: If there are medications that may be associated with high eosinophils, it is important to discuss alternatives or dosage changes with your doctor.

The key is to identify the root cause, seek appropriate treatment, and follow your healthcare provider's guidance, rather than directly attempting to reduce elevated eosinophil levels. Therefore, it's important to consult a doctor before considering any treatment or changes.

Can certain foods increase eosinophil count?

Yes, some foods can cause allergic reactions, leading to increased eosinophil levels in the body. Allergic reactions can cause an increase in eosinophil counts. Some potential trigger foods that can cause elevated eosinophil counts include:

• Hazelnuts and peanuts: Nuts such as hazelnuts and peanuts can cause allergic reactions.
• Milk and dairy products: Some people may be allergic to milk and dairy products, and in this case, eosinophil levels may increase.
• Seafood: Seafood such as fish and shrimp can cause allergic reactions and contribute to increased eosinophil levels.
• Eggs: Some people may be allergic to eggs, and in this case, eosinophil levels may increase.
• Wheat and gluten: Wheat products can cause allergic reactions and increase eosinophil levels in people with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

These foods can trigger allergic reactions in some people, and in this case, the body may produce eosinophils to defend against allergens. Avoiding foods that trigger allergic reactions is an important step in maintaining normal eosinophil levels. People with allergy symptoms can prevent allergic reactions and help maintain balanced eosinophil levels by avoiding these foods.

What happens if the eosinophil count is high?

A high eosinophil count may indicate that the body is struggling with an inflammatory condition. High eosinophil levels may indicate conditions known as hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES) or eosinophilic disorder. These conditions can affect specific areas of the body and may include:

• Eosinophilic fasciitis (Shulman syndrome): This is an inflammatory condition affecting the subcutaneous tissues. Eosinophilic fasciitis can cause painful swelling, redness, and tenderness under the skin.
• Eosinophilic cystitis: A condition associated with inflammation of the bladder. Eosinophilic cystitis can cause symptoms such as pain during urination, frequent urination, and blood in the urine.
• Eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders: These refer to inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract (stomach, intestines). These conditions can present with symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss.
• Eosinophilic pneumonia: A disease that affects the lungs. Eosinophilic pneumonia can cause symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, and fever.

These conditions can be associated with inflammation in various parts of the body and are often associated with a significant increase in eosinophil levels. However, high eosinophil levels can only be an indicator, and a definitive diagnosis often requires additional testing and evaluation by a doctor. The signs and symptoms of eosinophilic disorders may require therapeutic intervention, so it's important to consult a doctor.