Basophils
Basophils are associated with the immune system. Basophils are also released during allergic reactions and asthma.
Basophils Overview
Basophils are a specific type of white blood cell. Basophils are important to the body's immune response as they release histamine and other substances when the immune response is triggered. Basophils are also involved in producing allergic responses.
Basophils are measured as a percentage. The normal range for basophils is 1-3 %.
Technique
Blood draw
Preparation
Fasting is not required before the test
What the results mean
Elevated basophils may be seen with certain skin disorders, leukemia, and myeloproliferative disorders which are conditions that cause blood cells, platelets, white blood cells, and red blood cells to grow abnormally in the bone marrow.
Lower than normal basophils may indicate acute infection, graves disease, and shock. Lower than normal basophils may be seen during pregnancy.
