Absolute Eosinophil Count (AEC) Test For Allergic Diseases

An Absolute Eosinophil Count (AEC) Test helps to measure the number of eosinophils which helps to detect infections, allergic diseases, and other medical conditions.

 

What is Absolute Eosinophil Count (AEC) Test

• The Absolute Eosinophil Count (AEC) test is a type of blood test that measures the number of eosinophils in the blood.
• Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell that plays a role in the immune system's response to allergies and parasitic infections.
• The AEC test is typically ordered as part of a complete blood count (CBC) and can be used to diagnose and monitor certain medical conditions such as allergic reactions, asthma, and parasitic infections.
• An increase in the number of eosinophils may indicate the presence of an allergic or parasitic condition, while a decrease may indicate a medical condition affecting the bone marrow or immune system.
• The test is performed by drawing a blood sample from the patient and analyzing the number of eosinophils in the sample.
• The results of the AEC test are typically reported as the number of eosinophils per microliter of blood.

 

Absolute Eosinophil Count (AEC) Test Overview

Also Known As	Eosinophil Count Test, AEC Test
Type	Blood Test
Purpose	Number of Eosinophils in Blood
Sample Type	Blood
Preparation	No Special Preparation Required
Gender	Unisex
Age-Group	Above 10 Years
Fasting	No
Value	0-500 cells per microliter
Reporting Time	1 - 2 hours
Cost	100 to 200* INR

*Price range may vary as per location, lab type, and procedure of lab test.

 

AEC Test Full Form

The Full form of ALC Test is Absolute Eosinophil Count Test.

 

Interesting Facts About Eosinophil

• Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell involved in the immune response against parasites and allergic reactions.
• They contain granules filled with enzymes that help fight off infections and contribute to the inflammation response.
• Elevated levels of eosinophils in the blood can indicate allergies, parasitic infections, certain autoimmune diseases, or some types of cancers.

 

Absolute Eosinophil Count (AEC) Test Purpose

The Absolute Eosinophil Count (AEC) test is performed to measure the number of eosinophils in the blood. Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell that plays a role in the immune system's response to allergies and parasitic infections.

The AEC test is typically ordered as part of a complete blood count (CBC) and can be used to diagnose and monitor certain medical conditions such as:

• Allergic reactions: An increase in eosinophils may indicate an allergic reaction to food, medication, or other allergens.
• Asthma: Eosinophil levels may be elevated in people with asthma, and monitoring AEC levels can help in managing the disease.
• Parasitic infections: Eosinophils can increase in response to certain parasitic infections, such as hookworm or schistosomiasis.
• Autoimmune diseases: In some autoimmune diseases, such as Churg-Strauss syndrome, the AEC levels may be elevated.
• Skin disorders: Certain skin disorders, such as eczema, may be associated with an increase in eosinophils.
• Blood disorders: Rarely, a low AEC count may indicate a blood disorder, such as leukemia.

 

 

The AEC test is a useful tool in diagnosing and monitoring these conditions, but it should be used in conjunction with other diagnostic tests and medical evaluations. Your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your medical history and physical examination to determine if further testing or treatment is necessary.

 

Absolute Eosinophil Count (AEC) Test Preparation

There is no special preparation required for the Absolute Eosinophil Count (AEC) test. Here are some general tips to help ensure accurate test results:

• Inform your healthcare provider of any medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal remedies.
• Some medications may affect the results of the test, so your doctor may ask you to temporarily stop taking certain medications before the test.
• Fast for 8-12 hours before the test, if required. Your doctor may recommend fasting if the AEC test is being performed as part of a complete blood count (CBC) that requires fasting.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to your arm.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water before the test. This can help make it easier to draw blood.
• Avoid strenuous exercise or physical activity before the test, as this may affect the results.
• Relax and try to stay calm before and during the test. Stress and anxiety can cause changes in some blood test results, including the AEC.
• If you have a fear of needles, you can inform your healthcare provider beforehand so they can help you manage your anxiety during the test.

Be sure to follow any other instructions given to you by your healthcare provider to ensure accurate and reliable test results.

 

Absolute Eosinophil Count (AEC) Test Procedure

The Absolute Eosinophil Count (AEC) test is a simple blood test that is usually performed as part of a complete blood count (CBC). Here's what to expect during the AEC test procedure:

• Preparation: No special preparation is necessary for the AEC test. You can eat and drink as you normally would before the test.
• Blood Sample Collection: A healthcare professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm using a needle. They will first clean the skin with an antiseptic solution and then insert the needle into the vein. They will collect a small amount of blood into a tube or vial.
• After the Blood Sample Collection: After the blood sample is collected, the needle is removed, and a small bandage is applied to the site to stop any bleeding.
• Laboratory Testing: The blood sample is sent to a laboratory, where it is analyzed to measure the absolute eosinophil count. The results are usually available within a few days.

Summary

• The AEC test is a simple and safe procedure that is performed in a healthcare professional's office or laboratory.
• There is a slight risk of bleeding, bruising, or infection at the site where the needle was inserted, but these complications are rare.
• If you experience any unusual symptoms after the test, such as pain, swelling, or bleeding at the site, or if you have any questions or concerns, be sure to contact your healthcare provider.

 

Absolute Eosinophil Count Test Result

Here is the result of the AEC Test.

Eosinophil Count	Interpretation
0-500 cells/µL	Normal Range
500-1,500 cells/µL	Eosinophilia
>1,500 cells/µL	Hypereosinophilia

 

Absolute Eosinophil Count (AEC) Test Report

AEC Test Report PDF

 

AEC Test Normal Report

AEC Normal Test Report PDF Format

AEC Test Normal Result Report PDF

 

AEC Test Abnormal Report

AEC Abnormal Test Report PDF Format

AEC Test Abnormal Result Report PDF

 

Hypereosinophilia

• Hypereosinophilia refers to a state in which the eosinophil count is significantly higher than normal, typically above 1,500 cells/µL of blood.
• This can be a sign of a variety of conditions, including allergies, parasitic infections, autoimmune disorders, and certain types of cancers.

 

Eosinophilia

• Eosinophilia refers to a state in which the eosinophil count is elevated, but not as high as in hypereosinophilia.
• Eosinophilia is typically defined as an eosinophil count between 500-1,500 cells/µL of blood. Eosinophilia can also be a sign of various conditions, including allergies, asthma, eczema, and certain types of infections.

 

Absolute Eosinophil Count Normal Range

Here is the normal range of Absolute Eosinophil Count (AEC).

Test	Normal Range
AEC Test	0-500 cells/μL

 

Specimen Requirments For AEC Test

Here are the specimen requirements for Absolute Eosinophil Count Test.

Specimen	Whole blood
Volume	Tube fill capacity
Container	Lavender-top (EDTA) tube.

 

High Absolute Eosinophil Count Cause

Here are some potential causes of a high Absolute Eosinophil Count (AEC) that may be presented in a table:

Condition	Potential Causes of High AEC
Allergic reactions	Food allergies, medication allergies, seasonal allergies, insect bites or stings, hay fever
Parasitic infections	Hookworm, schistosomiasis, filariasis, toxocariasis
Asthma	Uncontrolled asthma, exercise-induced asthma
Autoimmune diseases	Churg-Strauss syndrome, eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA)
Skin disorders	Eczema, dermatitis herpetiformis
Blood disorders	Chronic eosinophilic leukemia, hypereosinophilic syndrome

 

Low Absolute Eosinophil Count Cause

Here are some potential causes of a low Absolute Eosinophil Count (AEC) that may be presented in a table:

Condition	Potential Causes of Low AEC
Steroid medication use	Long-term use of corticosteroids
Sepsis	A bacterial or fungal infection that has spread throughout the body
Chemotherapy	Cancer treatment that can suppress the bone marrow
Autoimmune diseases	Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis
Bone marrow disorders	Aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndrome
Malnutrition	Severe malnutrition, especially protein deficiency
Overwhelming parasitic infections	Strongyloidiasis, visceral larva migrans

Summary

A high Absolute Eosinophil Count (AEC) may indicate allergies, parasitic infections, or autoimmune diseases, while a low AEC can be caused by certain medications or bone marrow disorders.

 

Absolute Eosinophil Count Test Limitation

Here are some possible limitations of the Absolute Eosinophil Count Test.

• Absolute Eosinophil Count (AEC) test alone cannot diagnose a specific condition; it is used as a part of a comprehensive assessment.
• AEC may vary throughout the day, and results can be influenced by factors such as stress, exercise, and medications.
• AEC levels can be influenced by various conditions, including allergies, infections, autoimmune disorders, and certain medications.
• AEC results should be interpreted in conjunction with other clinical findings and diagnostic tests for accurate diagnosis.
• A single AEC measurement may not provide a complete picture of eosinophil-related conditions and may require multiple tests over time.

 

Absolute Eosinophil Count Test Risk Factors

Here is the potential risk factor of the Absolute Eosinophil Count Test.

• Absolute Eosinophil Count (AEC) test risk factors can vary depending on the specific condition being evaluated.
• Allergies, asthma, and parasitic infections can contribute to increased eosinophil levels.
• Certain medications, such as corticosteroids and certain antibiotics, can affect eosinophil counts.
• Underlying autoimmune diseases and certain types of cancers can be associated with elevated eosinophil levels.
• It is important to consider individual patient factors and medical history when interpreting AEC results.

 

Doctor Recommendations After Absolute Eosinophil Count Test Result

Here are Doctor recommendations or consult a specialist after Absolute Eosinophil Count Test.

Test Results	Doctor to Consult	Reason to Visit
High	Allergist	Allergic reactions or parasitic infections.
Normal	Primary Care Physician	Routine check-up or general health concerns.
Low	Hematologist	Blood disorders or underlying medical conditions.

 

AEC (Absolute Eosinophil Count) Test Price

Here are the estimated Absolute Eosinophil Count (AEC) Test Price in India with different top cities:

City	Price Range (INR)*
Mumbai	100 - 200
New Delhi	100 - 200
Bangalore	100 - 200
Hyderabad	100 - 200
Kolkata	100 - 150
Pune	100 - 150
Lucknow	100 - 200
Noida	100 - 200
Surat	100 - 150
Gurugram	100 - 150
Patna	100 - 200
Chennai	100 - 150
Jaipur	100 - 200
Ahmedabad	100 - 150

*Prices are approximate and vary depending on a specific laboratory or healthcare facility.

 

Summary

Overall,The Absolute Eosinophil Count (AEC) test measures the number of eosinophils in the blood, which can help diagnose and monitor allergic reactions, parasitic infections, autoimmune diseases, and certain blood disorders. We would recommend visiting the Drlogy Test for detailed information about all medical tests for patients, doctors, scholers and medical students.

 

Reference

• Wikipedia Eosinophilia - Hypereosinophilia is an elevation in an individual's circulating blood eosinophil count [1].
• Eosinophil Count - Absolute Information | Mount Sinai - New York Org [2].