Why Increase Eosinophils?
Increased eosinophil levels, a condition called eosinophilia, can stem from a variety of reasons. Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the body's immune response, particularly against parasites and allergic reactions. Therefore, an increase in their numbers often indicates the body is fighting off an infection or managing an allergic response.
Several conditions can lead to elevated eosinophil counts. These include:
- Parasitic Infections: Helminthic infections (worm infestations), like ascariasis (a roundworm infection), are a significant cause. The body's immune system produces more eosinophils to combat these parasites.
- Allergies: Seasonal allergies, asthma, atopic dermatitis (eczema), and allergic rhinitis are frequently associated with increased eosinophils. These allergic reactions trigger the release of eosinophils as part of the inflammatory response.
- Certain Cancers: Some types of cancer, including acute myelogenous leukemia (AML), can cause eosinophilia.
- Connective Tissue Diseases: Conditions affecting connective tissues, such as certain autoimmune diseases, may lead to elevated eosinophil levels.
- Drug Reactions: Certain medications, including amphetamines, can trigger an increase in eosinophil counts. This is a reaction to the drug itself, potentially causing an adverse effect.
- Churg-Strauss Syndrome: This rare vasculitis (inflammation of blood vessels) is characterized by a significant increase in eosinophils.
- Other Inflammatory Conditions: Conditions involving chronic inflammation, such as inflammatory bowel disease (in some cases, specifically increased eosinophils in the left colon), can cause eosinophilia.
It's important to note that eosinophilia can also be idiopathic, meaning the cause isn't readily identifiable.
Understanding Eosinophil Function
Eosinophils are part of the body's defense system. They're particularly effective against larger pathogens like parasites. In allergic reactions, they contribute to the inflammatory process, which can cause symptoms like coughing, wheezing, skin rashes, and inflammation. An increased eosinophil count is a sign that your body is actively responding to something, either beneficial or harmful.
Determining the underlying cause of increased eosinophils requires a thorough medical evaluation, including a complete blood count (CBC) and potentially additional tests depending on suspected causes. The information above serves as an overview and does not substitute professional medical advice.
