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Absolute Basophils test

The absolute number of basophils, white cells that drive histamine release in allergic and inflammatory responses. Included with every panel.

At a glance

Price

Included with every panel

Baseline labs come free with any panel you build.

Results

In about 5 days

Most results are ready in about 5 days. Some specialty markers can take up to 21 days.

Preparation

Check before your draw

This marker has no preparation tag, but it can still need preparation. Contact us before your draw if you’re not sure.

Blood draw

Walk in at Quest

Your lab order arrives by email. Most Quest locations take walk-ins, so bring it with a photo ID.

What it measures

Basophils are the rarest type of white blood cell, and this is a count of them. They release histamine, a chemical behind allergy symptoms like itching and swelling.

Why it matters for women

There’s no women-specific pattern for basophils. As part of the blood count included with every panel, it helps round out the picture of your immune system. A high count can point to allergies or ongoing inflammation, and less frequently to a problem in the bone marrow, where blood cells are made.

You might check it if…

  • you get allergies, hives or ongoing itching
  • you’re living with an ongoing inflammatory condition
  • a past blood count was flagged as unusual

What your result may mean

High Absolute Basophils: what it may mean

A high absolute basophil count (basophilia) may point to allergies or long-lasting inflammation and, less frequently, to a myeloproliferative disorder, where the bone marrow can make too many blood cells. It can happen with inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis or an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). Because basophils are so few, a small change can look large on paper, and a clinician may repeat the count before reading much into it. Some people may notice itching, hives or a runny nose from allergies, and others may have no symptoms.

Low Absolute Basophils: what it may mean

A low absolute basophil count can be common and is rarely meaningful on its own. These are the rarest white blood cells, so a healthy count can sit close to zero. A brief dip may follow a sudden infection, stress, steroid medicines or an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). A low count may not cause symptoms by itself, and a clinician may pay more attention to the rest of your white cells.

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No insurance required · HSA/FSA eligible · No subscription

These notes provide context and do not diagnose a condition. Not yet available in NY, NJ, RI, HI, ND, SD or WV.