Eosinophil quantification involves determining the number of these white blood cells present in a blood sample. This is often achieved through automated hematology analyzers that use techniques like flow cytometry to identify and count eosinophils based on their size, granularity, and staining characteristics. The result is typically expressed as a number of eosinophils per microliter (L) of blood or as a percentage of the total white blood cell count. For instance, a report might indicate an eosinophil count of 300/L or 3%.
Determining the eosinophil level is crucial in diagnosing and monitoring various medical conditions, including allergic reactions, parasitic infections, and certain autoimmune disorders. Elevated levels, known as eosinophilia, can indicate the presence of these conditions, while decreased levels can sometimes be associated with other underlying health issues. Historically, manual microscopic examination of blood smears was the primary method for cell counting, but automated methods have significantly improved accuracy and efficiency in clinical laboratories.
