Basophils (abs.)
Basophils are the rarest white blood cell subtype, involved in allergic and inflammatory reactions (they release histamine). The absolute count is small; abnormalities are rarely significant on their own.
| Rating | Range | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Good | below 0.1 10^9/L | Within the reference range. |
| Talk to a doctor | 0.1 10^9/L and above | Above the limit — seek advice. |
Why it matters
Rarely elevated; an allergic/inflammatory context.
If it’s low
Low basophils have no clinical significance.
If it’s high
Elevated basophils are rare; they can accompany allergies, chronic inflammation or (rarely) myeloproliferative diseases.
What to do
Read it in the context of the full blood count. An isolated mild abnormality is almost always insignificant.
When to see a doctor
Persistently markedly elevated basophils with other blood abnormalities → seek advice
Read together with
Leukocytes (WBC) · Eosinophils (abs.)
Part of the guide: Complete blood count (CBC) →
Articles about this marker
- High monocytes and basophils: what they mean on a blood testComplete blood count (CBC)
- White blood cell differential: what each type of white cell meansComplete blood count (CBC)
This content is for information only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Talk to your doctor about your results.
Your number, not the average
Upload your report: we rate your exact value for your age and sex, show the source, and tell you what to do next.