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Test Name:
Eosinophil Smear, Nasal Secretions
- SBMF No:
25029 - Performance Lab Name:
Hematology - Test Mnemonic:
EO SM - ABN:
Not required - CPT Code:
89190 - LOINC Code:
30378-4 - Also Known As:
Nasal Eosinophils - Also See:
25031 Eosinophil Count, Whole Blood - Spec Type:
Nasal secretions - Spec Container:
Glass slides - Pref Vol:
Two (2) smears - Min Vol:
One (1) smear - Spec Collect:
Obtain specimens from each side of nose
Shape flexible wire handle of a mini-tip swab into contour of nares and nasopharynx
Insert mini-tip swab through nose to posterior nasopharynx
Leave swab in place near septum and floor of nose for 15-30 seconds, or until patient coughs
Remove swab, prepare smears from collected material, and allow to air-dry
If nasal linings are dry, moisten swab in sterile saline, collect specimen, then roll swab over surface of 2 slides
Alternatively, have patient blow nose on waxed paper or cellophane and prepare smears from collected material - Spec Store Transport:
Refrigerated
Transport sample ASAP after collection - Spec Stability:
12 hours refrigerated (2-8°C) - Methodology:
Microscopic Examination - Use:
Investigate allergic, asthmatic disorders, and parasitic infestations - Clinical Significance:
The occurrence of eosinophils has been reported in allergic conditions including allergies to medication. The nasal smear for eosinophils is a reliable test with moderately high specificity especially in children with seasonal allergic rhinitis since nasal secretions of patients with allergic rhinitis usually contains increased numbers of eosinophils. - Reference Range:
Less than 15% Eosinophils - Additional Test Info:
In allergy, the pathologic picture is characterized by eosinophilic infiltration and edema. Where secretions are involved, eosinophils are found and signify the presence of the allergic process. In purely inflammatory or infectious processes affecting these same structures, the cytologic response is expressed in terms of neutrophils or pus cells.
In allergic conditions, the degree of eosinophilia of the secretions is proportional to the severity of the symptoms and reactions. In the milder cases of nasal allergy, eosinophils are present in comparatively small numbers, while in hay fever, large masses of the cells can be demonstrated.
Acute, subacute, and chronic infections are characterized by neutrophilic infiltration. Consequently, only this type of cell is found in the secretions. Eosinophils are never present except for a few scattered ones mixed with large numbers of neutrophils in the resolution stage of the common cold.
It is not necessary to obtain bronchial secretions in children. The nasal secretion shows the same cytology.
Patients with pure hay fever do not show eosinophils in the secretions outside of the season except with sporadic exacerbations. Non-seasonal symptoms, therefore, are usually caused by colds.
Eosinophils and basophils in the secretions out of season indicate other sensitivity. This may be perennial allergy but sometimes post seasonal symptoms last only a few weeks as they represent hay fever extra sensitivity hangovers. Foods and molds often play a part. - Day Run:
Sun-Sat (daily) - Time Run:
As received - Time Reported:
4 hours - Test Type:
BODY FLUID
