Absolute Eosinophil Count (AEC) Test
Absolute eosinophil count (AEC) is a type of blood test measuring the number of eosinophil cells in a blood sample. Eosinophils are a type of white blood cells involved in the body's immune response to parasites and allergies.
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Get A Second OpinionAn elevated AEC may indicate an-
- Allergic reaction,
- Parasitic infection,
- Certain cancers
A low AEC may indicate certain types of diseases or bone marrow disorders. The test is typically ordered by a healthcare provider when a patient is experiencing symptoms that may be related to an allergic reaction or parasitic infection.
What are the uses of the Absolute Eosinophil Count Test?
The absolute eosinophil count (AEC) test is primarily used to help diagnose and monitor certain medical conditions, including:
- Allergies: An elevated AEC can indicate allergic reactions, such as asthma, allergic rhinitis, and atopic dermatitis.
- Parasitic infections: A high AEC can indicate a parasitic infection, such as intestinal worms or schistosomiasis.
- Autoimmune diseases: Some autoimmune diseases, such as eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA), can cause an increase in eosinophils in the blood.
- Drug reactions: Some medications can cause an increase in eosinophil count as an adverse reaction.
- Blood disorders: Certain types of blood cancers, such as chronic eosinophilic leukemia, can cause an increase in eosinophil count.
- Monitoring treatments: AEC can be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatments for the above conditions and other conditions where eosinophil count is relevant.
Overall, the AEC test is a valuable tool in diagnosing and managing conditions related to eosinophil count and can help healthcare providers make informed decisions about treatment options for their patients.
What happens in an Absolute Eosinophil Count Test?
During an absolute eosinophil count (AEC) test, a blood sample is collected from a vein in the arm using a needle and taken to a lab for analysis. In the laboratory, the blood sample is analyzed using an automated machine called a hematology analyzer, which counts the number of eosinophil cells present in the blood. The results of the AEC test are typically reported in cells per microliter (μL) of blood.
Understanding Absolute Eosinophil Count Test Results
An absolute eosinophil count (AEC) test results are reported as the number of eosinophil cells per microliter (μL) of blood. Normal AEC ranges can vary slightly depending on the laboratory that does the test but generally falls within the following ranges:
- Adults: 30 to 350 cells/μL
- Children: 50 to 500 cells/μL
An elevated AEC may indicate an allergic reaction, a parasitic infection, or certain cancers. The severity of the elevation may provide additional information on the severity of the condition. A low AEC may indicate certain types of infections or bone marrow disorders. As with an elevated AEC, the severity of the decrease may provide additional information on the severity of the condition. A healthcare provider should interpret AEC test results, as results must be considered in the context of the patient's medical history, symptoms, and other diagnostic tests.
What are the Risks Factor of Absolute Eosinophil Count (AEC) Test?
- Allergic reactions
- Parasitic infections
- Certain cancers
- Autoimmune disorders
- Bone marrow disorders
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Book an AppointmentFrequently Asked Questions
The AEC test is performed by collecting a blood sample from a vein in the arm. The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis using an automated machine called a hematology analyzer.
Generally, no special preparation is required for the AEC test. However, patients should follow any instructions provided by their healthcare provider or laboratory, such as fasting before the test or avoiding certain medications that may affect the results.
The AEC test involves a needle stick to collect the blood sample, which may cause mild discomfort. However, most people tolerate the test well; discomfort typically subsides quickly.
The time it takes to get AEC test results can vary depending on the laboratory conducting the test and the specific circumstances of the test. However, in general, results are usually available within a few days.
The AEC test is a safe and routine blood test. However, as with any blood test, there is a slight risk of bleeding, bruising, or infection in the area where the needle is inserted. These risks are typically very low and can be minimized by following the healthcare provider's or laboratory's instructions.
No, the AEC test cannot be done at home. It must be performed by a healthcare provider or in the laboratory using specialized equipment and techniques.
The normal range for absolute eosinophil count (AEC) in peripheral blood is typically 0 to 500 cells/microL or less than 0.5 x 10^9/L. However, it's important to note that normal ranges may vary slightly depending on the laboratory performing the test and the population being tested.
Symptoms of high eosinophils include weight loss, fevers, night sweats, fatigue, cough, chest pain, swelling, stomachache, rash, pain, weakness, confusion, and coma.
The cost of the AEC test is approximately Rs. 100 to Rs. 300, but it can vary from place to place.
You can get an AEC test at Medicover Hospitals.
