Absolute Basophil Count
Also known as Absolute Basophil Count Automated BloodWhat is this test?
This test is used to determine the concentrations of basophils present in the blood sample of an individual. This test is usually recommended if the doctor suspects that an individual suffering from any underlying bacterial or viral infections, blood disorders or certain cancers like leukemia, basophilia, etc.
What are basophils?
Basophils are a type of white blood cells. Eosinophils, monocytes, lymphocytes along with basophils makeup the white blood cells. The white blood cells play a role in maintaining the immune system and blood clotting mechanisms in the body. Basophils are present in very fewer quantities in the blood. They can also be called the granular cells and contain heparin( prevents blood from clotting). Apart from preventing the blood from clotting within the blood vessels they also play a role in the mediation of allergic reactions when the body is exposed to possible allergens.
Why this test is recommended?
This test is performed as part of a routine check-up to monitor the overall health of an individual. Your doctor may ask to perform this test to diagnose or to screen for diseases and conditions such as anemia, infections, cancer or any bleeding disorder.
This test is also recommended by your doctor if you experience signs and symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, shortness of breath, headache, dizziness, pale skin, cold hands, and feet, etc. These are some of the common signs and symptoms which may be associated with anemia or polycythemia.
You may be advised to undergo this test if you are pregnant, have a family history of anemia, are suffering from an infection, have had blood loss after surgery, are suffering from heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding, etc. This test is also performed to monitor the treatment response in individuals receiving treatment for diseases or conditions that affect blood cells.
How often this test is performed?
If you have a family history of blood disorders or conditions that affect blood cells, your doctor may ask you to perform this test on a 6-monthly basis or a yearly basis. Anemic patients should perform this test on a regular basis, as instructed by the doctor.
Test Preparation
Inform your doctor if you are on any medications, have any allergies or underlying medical conditions before your Absolute Basophil Count. Your doctor will give specific instructions depending on your condition on how to prepare for Absolute Basophil Count.
Understanding your test results
If the white blood cell count is lower than the normal range it may indicate autoimmune disorder like lupus and ulcerative colitis, bone marrow problems or cancer.
If the white blood cell count is higher than the normal range it may indicate bacterial infections like tuberculosis, viral infections, and fungus. Use of certain medications such as steroids, lithium, and some inhalers may also increase the white blood count.
Lower than the normal levels of platelet count is known as thrombocytopenia. This may occur due to medical conditions such as leukemia (a type of blood cancer), aplastic anemia, viral infections, some autoimmune disorders, splenomegaly (an enlarged spleen), cirrhosis of the liver, kidney dysfunction, etc. Other factors such as chemotherapy drugs (cancer medicines); vitamin B12, iron, or folic acid deficiency; chronic alcohol use, etc. may also cause thrombocytopenia.
| Gender | Age groups | Value |
| MALE | All age groups | 0-300 cells per microliter of blood |
| FEMALE | All age groups | 0-300 cells per microliter of blood |