Eosinophils

Question 1

What % of eosinophils should be in the blood?

Answer 1

1-6%

Question 2

What are some of the characteristic features of eosinophils?

Answer 2

Bilobed

Large red secondary granules (high bac conc and bactericidal proteins and enzymes)

Question 3

What are the two main roles of the eosinophil?

Answer 3

In the allergic response.

Phagocytic - defence against tissue paarasites.

Question 4

What are the 2 main worm related bactericidal proteins and enzymes in eosinophils?

Answer 4

ECP (eosinophil cationic protein) - toxic to helminths. Also induces degranulation of mast cells.
EDN/EPX - also found in E and M, are bactericidal and helmithotoxic as well as neurotoxic functions.

Question 5

What is the definition of eosinophilia?

Answer 5

An E count of greater than 0.5 x10^9/L.

Question 6

What is the risk associated with eosinophilia?

Answer 6

Significant risk of tissue damage following eosinophil degranulation.

Question 7

What are some of the causes of eosinophilia?

Answer 7

Allergic diseases
Parasitic infections
Drug sensitivity
Treatment with GM-CSF (acute rise due to treatment, will taper off)