Absolute Eosinophil Count, Blood

Also Know as: AEC, ABS EOSINOPHIL

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Last Updated 1 November 2024

What is AEC Test?

Absolute Eosinophil Count (AEC) is a blood test that is frequently carried out in conjunction with a complete blood count (CBC). It aids in diagnosing and surveilling specific medical diseases marked by variations in the blood's eosinophil count, a kind of white blood cell.

  • Eosinophils usually make up 1-6% of the white blood cells. They are crucial in the body's immune response, particularly in allergic reactions and parasitic infections.

  • Higher than normal levels of eosinophils (eosinophilia) can indicate a parasitic infection, an allergic reaction, or an autoimmune disease.

  • Lower-than-normal levels of eosinophils (eosinopenia) can result from an acute infection or inflammation. It may also indicate that the body produces too many other types of white blood cells.

  • The AEC test is often ordered when a person has symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as itching, rashes, wheezing, or nasal congestion. It may also be ordered when a person has symptoms of a parasitic infection, such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, or fever.

  • The test involves taking a blood sample from a vein in the arm. The blood is then sent to a laboratory, where a machine counts the number of eosinophils. The result is usually reported as the number of eosinophils per microliter (μL) of blood.

It's important to remember that the AEC, like all blood tests, must be interpreted regarding a person's overall health, symptoms, and medical history.


When is AEC Test Required?

The Absolute Eosinophil Count, often abbreviated as AEC, is a blood test that measures the number of eosinophils in your body. Eosinophils are white blood cells fundamental to your body's immune system. They help your body fight off certain types of infections and ailments. Here are some instances when an Absolute Eosinophil Count and blood is required:

  • Allergies: AEC is used to diagnose and monitor allergies. When your body encounters an allergen, it releases eosinophils to fight off the allergen. An increase in the count of eosinophils can indicate an allergic reaction.

  • Parasitic Infections: Eosinophils are also released in response to parasitic infections. A high AEC can suggest a parasitic infection.

  • Autoimmune diseases: The immune system attacks the tissues in your body. An elevated eosinophil count can be a sign of an autoimmune disease.

  • Asthma: Asthma is often associated with an increased eosinophil count. AEC can help diagnose and monitor this condition.


Who Requires an AEC Test?

The Absolute Eosinophil Count Blood test is not a routine blood test and is usually only required for specific individuals. Here are some instances when an individual might need an AEC:

  • People with Allergic Symptoms: Those experiencing a rash, itching, wheezing, or nasal congestion may require an AEC to determine if they are from an allergy.

  • Individuals with Parasitic Infections: Anyone suffering from a parasitic infection may require an AEC to monitor the infection.

  • Patients with Autoimmune Diseases: Individuals diagnosed with autoimmune diseases like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis may require regular AECs to monitor their condition.

  • Individuals with Asthma: Asthma patients may need an AEC for their routine checkup to monitor their condition.


What is Measured in AEC?

The Absolute Eosinophil Count Blood test measures the number of eosinophils in your body. These are just a few of the things that are measured during this test:

  • The number of eosinophils present in the blood.

  • The percentage of white blood cells that are eosinophils.

  • The concentration of eosinophils in the blood.

  • The overall health and functionality of the eosinophils in the body.


Methodology

  • The Absolute Eosinophil Count (AEC) is a blood test that counts your body's white blood cells, or eosinophils. Eosinophils play a crucial role in the body's immune response.

  • Eosinophils are responsible for fighting off certain infections and are also involved in the body's response to allergic reactions. An increase in the count of eosinophils can indicate an allergic reaction or infection in the body.

  • The AEC is computed by multiplying the percentage of eosinophils seen in the peripheral blood smear by the total white blood cell count of eosinophils observed in the peripheral blood smear. This provides a more accurate estimate of the body's eosinophil count.

  • AEC is part of the complete blood count (CBC) test performed in a laboratory. This test's results can be used to diagnose autoimmune illnesses, allergies, and asthma, among other ailments.


How to Prepare for AEC Test?

  • No special preparation is needed before taking the AEC test. However, informing your doctor about any medications you currently take is essential, as some medicines may affect the test results.

  • Before the test, you can be requested to fast for eight to twelve hours and consume only water. This is known as fasting.

  • It is also advised to wear loose and comfortable clothing, as you may need to roll up your sleeves for the blood sample to be drawn.


What Happens During AEC?

  • During the AEC test, a healthcare professional will clean an area of your skin, usually the inside of your elbow, with an antiseptic.

  • A tourniquet (an elastic band) will be tied around your upper arm to make the veins more visible and accessible.

  • After that, the medical expert will take a sample. of your blood by sticking a needle into a vein in your arm. This procedure is usually quick and causes minimal discomfort.

  • Following the collection of the blood sample, the needle will be taken out, and the injection site will be lightly bandaged.

  • After that, a lab will get the blood sample for examination. Usually, the findings are ready in a few days.


What is AEC Normal Range?

The Absolute Eosinophil Count (AEC) is a blood test to determine the number of eosinophils in your body. Eosinophils are white blood cells that are vital to your body's immune response. They help fight off certain infections and diseases, especially those associated with allergic reactions and asthma. The normal range for the Absolute Eosinophil Count in the blood is typically between 100 and 500 cells per microliter of blood. Nevertheless, this differs depending on the lab that examines the blood sample.


What are the Reasons for Abnormal AEC Levels?

  • An increase in eosinophils, known as eosinophilia, may be due to various conditions, including allergies, asthma, parasites, certain types of infections, autoimmune diseases, and certain types of cancer.

  • A decrease in eosinophils, known as eosinopenia, is less common but can occur due to acute stress or after administering certain medications, including corticosteroids.


How to Maintain Normal AEC Range?

  • Maintain a healthy lifestyle: A healthy diet and regular exercise can support the maintenance of a robust and well-operating immune system.

  • ** Avoid allergens**: If you have allergies, avoiding exposure to allergens can help prevent an increase in eosinophils.

  • Treat infections promptly: Certain types of infections can increase eosinophils, and prompt treatment can help prevent this.

  • Regular Checkups: Frequent medical examinations can help detect any aberrant increase or decrease in eosinophils early on, improving the efficacy of treatment.


Precautions and Aftercare Tips Post Absolute Eosinophil Count, Blood

  • Post-test Care: After the blood draw, apply pressure to the site and keep it clean to prevent infection and aid healing. Mild bruising is normal.

  • Follow-up: If your Absolute Eosinophil Count is abnormal, consult your physician again for additional tests and care.

  • ** Medication**: If you are on any medication that may affect the eosinophil count, consult your healthcare provider before stopping or altering the dosage.

  • Health Monitoring: Keep track of any new symptoms or changes in existing conditions and report them to your healthcare provider.


Why Book with Bajaj Finserv Health?

  • Precision: Bajaj Finserv Health-affiliated labs utilize top-notch technology to provide precise results.

  • Cost-effectiveness: Our standalone diagnostic tests and providers are comprehensive and won't exhaust your budget.

  • Home-based sample collection: We offer the convenience of collecting your samples from your home at a time that suits you.

  • Countrywide availability: Our medical testing services are accessible irrespective of your location in the country.

  • Convenient payment methods: Pick from our range of payment options, either cash or digital.


Note:

This is not medical advice, and this content should only be considered for informational purposes only. Consult with your healthcare provider for individual medical guidance.