What does it mean when white blood cells are normal but eosinophils are elevated, and what should be done?
May 30, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Heyang
Introduction
In most cases, elevated eosinophils with normal white blood cell count are caused by factors such as urticaria, bronchial asthma, and schistosomiasis. Patients require treatment through daily care and the use of appropriate medications. Other possible causes include hookworm infection, ascariasis, chronic eosinophilic leukemia, and systemic lupus erythematosus.
In most cases, elevated eosinophils with normal white blood cell count are caused by factors such as urticaria, bronchial asthma, and schistosomiasis. Patients need to receive treatment through daily care and appropriate medications. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Urticaria
Urticaria is triggered by various foods, medications, or other factors, leading to temporary dilation and increased permeability of small blood vessels in the skin and mucous membranes. This results in localized swelling, red or pale wheals on the skin, itching, and other symptoms, which can affect the immune system and lead to elevated eosinophil levels despite a normal white blood cell count. It is recommended that patients take antihistamines such as loratadine tablets or cetirizine hydrochloride tablets as directed by a physician.
2. Bronchial Asthma
Bronchial asthma is commonly caused by allergens, smoking, and other factors, often resulting in symptoms such as wheezing, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing. Blood tests may show normal white blood cell counts but elevated eosinophil levels. Patients should avoid allergens and, under medical guidance, use medications such as budesonide nasal spray or mometasone furoate gel for treatment.
3. Schistosomiasis
Schistosomiasis is caused by infection with schistosomes and commonly leads to symptoms such as dysentery-like stools, hepatosplenomegaly, and ascites. Blood tests may also reveal normal white blood cell counts with elevated eosinophils. Treatment may include medications such as praziquantel tablets or artemether capsules, taken as prescribed by a doctor.
Besides the above causes, other conditions such as hookworm infection, ascariasis, chronic eosinophilic leukemia, and systemic lupus erythematosus may also be responsible. Patients are advised to seek timely medical evaluation at a reputable healthcare facility.
