Basophils (count and %) is a blood test that measures basophils (count and %) levels in the blood. Normal range: Basophils are the rarest white cell, normally about 0-0.1 x10^9/L (under roughly 1-2% of white cells). Because numbers are so small, the percentage can fluctuate without meaning much; the absolute count matters more.. It is commonly used to helps assess allergic responses and certain inflammatory and immune conditions..
What is Basophils (count and %)?
A type of white blood cell involved in allergic reactions and inflammation.
Why is it measured?
Helps assess allergic responses and certain inflammatory and immune conditions.
Normal Reference Range
Basophils are the rarest white cell, normally about 0-0.1 x10^9/L (under roughly 1-2% of white cells). Because numbers are so small, the percentage can fluctuate without meaning much; the absolute count matters more.
Note: Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
What Causes High BASOPHILS?
A raised basophil count (basophilia) is uncommon and can accompany allergic and inflammatory conditions, an underactive thyroid, and chronic inflammation. Its most clinically important association is with myeloproliferative disorders, particularly chronic myeloid leukaemia, where a persistently high basophil count can be an early clue. Persistent unexplained basophilia therefore warrants further blood testing.
What Causes Low BASOPHILS?
A low basophil count (basopenia) is difficult to detect because the normal count is already near zero, and it has little clinical significance. It can occur with acute infection, stress, corticosteroid treatment, an overactive thyroid, and during allergic reactions.
How Often Should BASOPHILS Be Tested?
Basophils are reported automatically in the white cell differential of every full blood count (FBC), so they are not ordered on their own. A persistently or markedly raised count is followed up with a blood film and, if needed, tests for myeloproliferative disease.
Related Blood Markers
Basophils are interpreted within the full white cell differential — neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes and eosinophils — and the total white cell count. A blood film adds detail when the count is abnormal.
Key Facts
- •Category: Blood Health
- •Unit of Measurement: 10^9/L
- •Test Code: BASOPHILS
Related Blood Health Markers
Eosinophils (count and %)
A type of white blood cell involved in allergic responses and parasite defense.
Learn moreESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate)
Measures how quickly red blood cells settle to the bottom of a test tube.
Learn moreHaematocrit
Haematocrit (also written HCT or PCV — Packed Cell Volume) is the percentage of whole blood volume made up of red blood cells. It is reported automatically as part of every Full Blood Count (FBC) and is one of the three core red cell parameters alongside haemoglobin and red blood cell count.
Learn moreHaemoglobin
The oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells.
Learn moreLymphocytes (count and %)
White blood cells that play a central role in immune responses.
Learn moreMCH (Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin)
MCH (Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin) measures the average amount of haemoglobin inside a single red blood cell, expressed in picograms (pg). It is calculated automatically as part of a Full Blood Count (FBC) by dividing total haemoglobin by the red blood cell count. MCH works alongside MCV and MCHC to characterise the size and haemoglobin content of red blood cells, which is essential for diagnosing the type of anaemia present.
Learn more