Dr Rahul Bhargava Haematologist

MBBS, MD, DM (Clinical Haematology)

Principal Director & Chief Hematology at Fortis Hospital

MBBS, MD, DM (Clinical Haematology)

Principal Director & Chief Hematology at Fortis Hospital

Eosinophilia

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :

Mild cases are generally not life-threatening, but severe eosinophilia can cause organ damage if left untreated.

 

A normal eosinophil count is less than 500 cells per microliter of blood. Eosinophilia is diagnosed when this count exceeds 500.

 

Treatment can effectively manage eosinophilia, especially if the underlying cause is addressed. Some cases may require long-term management.

 

About Eosinophilia

Eosinophilia is a medical condition characterized by an elevated number of eosinophils—a type of white blood cell—in the blood or tissues. Eosinophils are part of your immune system and help your body fight infections and inflammation. However, when their count becomes abnormally high, it can lead to various health issues.

Dr. Rahul Bhargava explains that eosinophilia can range from mild to severe and can be a sign of an underlying health problem that needs attention.

Causes of Eosinophilia

Eosinophilia can occur due to various reasons, including:

  • Allergic reactions: Asthma, hay fever, and eczema.
  • Parasitic infections: Infections caused by parasites like roundworms or tapeworms.
  • Autoimmune diseases: Conditions like lupus or vasculitis.
  • Certain cancers: Such as leukemia or lymphoma.
  • Medications: Certain drugs, including antibiotics and anti-seizure medications, can trigger eosinophilia.
  • Infections: Fungal or bacterial infections.
  • Toxins or environmental factors.

Understanding the root cause is key to developing an appropriate treatment plan.

Types of Eosinophilia

Dr. Bhargava outlines the two main types of eosinophilia:

  1. Primary Eosinophilia: Occurs without any underlying disease. Often related to a condition called hypereosinophilic syndrome.
  2. Secondary Eosinophilia: Caused by other conditions, such as infections, allergies, or cancers. This type is more common and typically requires addressing the underlying cause.

Symptoms of Eosinophilia

The symptoms of eosinophilia vary depending on its severity and cause but may include:

  • Fever
  • Coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath
  • Rashes or skin lesions
  • Weight loss
  • Abdominal pain
  • Fatigue or general weakness

Severe cases of eosinophilia can lead to organ damage, particularly affecting the heart, lungs, and nervous system. If you experience any of these symptoms, consulting a haematologist like Dr. Rahul Bhargava is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management.

Diagnosis of Eosinophilia

Dr. Bhargava explains that diagnosing eosinophilia involves several tests, such as:

  • Complete Blood Count (CBC): To check the eosinophil count.
  • Blood Smear: A sample of your blood is examined under a microscope.
  • Bone Marrow Biopsy: In cases where blood tests are inconclusive.
  • Allergy Tests: To determine if eosinophilia is related to an allergic reaction.
  • Parasitic Tests: To rule out infections.

Accurate diagnosis helps in tailoring the treatment to your specific needs.

Treatment for Eosinophilia

The treatment for eosinophilia depends on its underlying cause. Here are the common approaches:

  • Medications: If caused by an allergic reaction or autoimmune disease, corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation.
  • Infection Treatment: If a parasitic infection is the cause, specific antiparasitic drugs will be used.
  • Chemotherapy or targeted therapy: For eosinophilia related to cancer, treatment options like chemotherapy may be necessary.
  • Lifestyle changes and avoidance: In cases triggered by environmental factors, avoiding the allergen or toxin can help manage the condition.

Cost of Treatment and Stay in India

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