Tests / Procedures for High Eosinophil Levels
Because there are several conditions than can cause elevated eosinophils in the gastrointestinal tract, the Cincinnati Center for Eosinophilic Disorders at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center will perform a complete medical history and physical examination (H&PE) in order to try to make a specific diagnosis. The H&PE and the biopsy results most likely will focus on a few possible diagnoses.
If a primary eosinophilic disorder of the gastrointestinal tract is considered, possible evaluations in some patients include:
- Complete cell blood count with differential: This is to assess the number of eosinophils in the blood and also to check for anemia and other conditions that might require specific treatment.
- Stool Examination: including microscopic evaluations, analysis for occult blood, ova and parasites, and cultures. These tests will address possible blood loss, presence of parasites, and bacterial infections.
- Allergy Evaluation: To assess for other associated conditions such as asthma, rhinitis, atopic dermatitis (eczema) and food allergies. The determination of food and environmental allergies is done by skin testing and/or measurements of specific immunoglobulin E in blood (IgE RAST).
- Evaluation of Gastroesophageal Reflux: If reflux is a consideration, a pH probe could be indicated to assess its severity.
- Tissue biopsy to further evaluate the area affected: The only way to diganose an eosinophilic disorder of the gastrointestinal tract is by a tissue sample. All these disorders are to be proven by a biposy. Other evaluations are often necessary to distinguish a primary disorder from a secondary.
