Basophil mediator release
Biomarker library
Full Blood Count
Basophil count
Basophils are the rarest white blood cells, usually less than 1% of the total, but they carry the histamine that drives allergic reactions.
Measured in your health assessment, with a doctor to explain your result. Book yours
Why it matters
When an allergen binds to antibodies on their surface, basophils release histamine, which makes small blood vessels leaky and causes itching, swelling and wheeze. They also help direct the body's defence against parasites.
What a result can mean
Lower than the range
Because basophils are so few, a low count is almost never meaningful. It can be seen during acute infection, stress, steroid treatment or an overactive thyroid.
Higher than the range
A mildly raised count can appear with allergies, an underactive thyroid or chronic inflammation. A persistently high count is occasionally an early clue to a bone-marrow condition such as chronic myeloid leukaemia, so it is followed up.
What can help
Treating allergies or the underlying condition is the main lever. Mildly abnormal values are usually rechecked rather than acted on.
Read it with
NoteGeneral educational illustration. Colours, sizes and movement are simplified. This is not a scan or a simulation of your body. General information, not personal medical advice: a doctor reads your own results with your history.
Know your basophil count.
Measured in your health assessment and explained by the doctor who reviews your results.