About Basophils
Basophils are a type of white blood cell, part of the body's immune response, originating from the bone marrow. They are the least common of the granulocytes and are known for their role in the inflammatory response, particularly related to allergic reactions. Basophils contain granules filled with histamine, proteoglycans, and enzymes that contribute to their function in defense against parasites and involvement in immune system signaling.
Reference Values
Optimal Range
0.5 - 1.0 percentage of white blood cells
Women's Optimal Range
0.0 - 2.0 percentage of white blood cells
Elite Value
Not specified
Health Implications
{'high': 'Elevated levels may indicate chronic allergic reactions, parasitic infections, or certain types of leukemia.', 'low': 'Low levels may be associated with acute allergic reactions or stress, but specific health risks are typically minimal.'}
Symptoms
High
May include fatigue, headaches, itchy skin, and feelings of heaviness in the abdomen.
Low
Can include dizziness, weakness, increased risk of allergic reactions, and susceptibility to infections.
Lifestyle Factors
Specimen Type
Testing Methods
Also Known As
Scientific Sources
- Galli, S. J., & Tsai, M. (2020). Basophils: Biology and relevance to allergic diseases. Nature Reviews Immunology, 20(3), 167–182.|Voehringer, D. (2021). Basophils in allergic immune responses. Current Opinion in Immunology, 72, 84–89.|Kubo, M., & Matsumoto, K. (2022). Basophils and their role in allergic diseases. Allergology International, 71(1), 1–8.|Stone, K. D., Prussin, C., & Metcalfe, D. D. (2019). IgE, mast cells, basophils, and eosinophils. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 144(3), 746–750.|U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2023). Basophils. MedlinePlus.