Basophils are important cells for the immune system, and are often increased in cases of allergies or prolonged inflammation such as asthma, rhinitis or hives for example. Basophils have many granules in their structure, which in situations of inflammation or allergy, for example, release heparin and histamine to combat the problem.
These cells form in the bone marrow and are a type of white blood cell (leukocytes), which can be evaluated by a white blood cell, a blood test indicated by the doctor and performed in hematology. Basophils are present in the blood at very low concentrations, with reference values between 0 and 2% or 0-200/mm3 in both men and women.
- Normal blood basophil values are indicated according to the total number of blood leukocytes.
- Representing about 0 to 2% of total leukocytes.
- The following table shows the lymphocyte reference values in adult men and women.
- As well as basophils.
Reference values for basophils vary between adult men and women, but may vary depending on the lab in which the blood test is performed, so the test result should be analyzed and interpreted by your doctor.
The increase in basophils in the blood, called basophilia, occurs in cases of:
In the case of basophilia, it is important to analyze the blood formula and ask for more tests to know the cause of the increase in basophilia and thus start the best treatment.
Basopenia occurs when basophils are in a small percentage, a situation that normally occurs due to degradation of white blood cell production by the bone marrow, and it is possible to identify only 20 cells per liter of blood.
The main causes of basopenia are the ingestion of drugs that weaken the immune system, such as corticosteroids, ovulation, pregnancy, stress period, hyperthyroidism and Cushing syndrome.