Basophils

Basophils are associated with the immune system. Basophils are also released during allergic reactions and asthma.

Basophils Overview

Reviewed: April 22, 2014
Updated: 

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.