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Choose collection locationHaematology · Individual laboratory test
Absolute Basophil Count
This is the actual number of basophils in a volume of blood. Basophils are a small group of white cells involved in immune responses.
Price for this test on its ownAED 115Test price AED 15
Clinical authorDr Nirupama SabhapathySpecialist Clinical Pathology
- Sample
- Whole Blood (EDTA)
- Laboratory turnaround
- 24 hours
- Collection
- Dubai
- Laboratory
- Intel Lab
Understanding the test
What does the Absolute Basophil Count test measure?
Also called Basophil White Cells
An absolute basophil count can help clarify an unusual white cell differential or follow a previously raised count. A recent allergic or inflammatory episode may be relevant.
When it may be requested
Reading a differential count
An absolute count helps distinguish a genuine rise in basophils from a change in their percentage.
Following a persistent finding
The trend and accompanying blood counts can guide decisions about further testing.
Before your sample
Prepare for collection
SpecimenWhole Blood (EDTA)
Your checklist
No fast is required. Tell the clinician about recent allergic reactions, infection and medicines that affect the immune system.
The clinician takes blood from a vein into a tube that keeps it from clotting. The collection team sends the labelled specimen to the laboratory.
Smart Report
Understanding your result
24 hoursLaboratory turnaround
Result guideAbsolute Basophil Count
Reading your result
Small fluctuations can look large in percentage terms because basophils are normally scarce. The absolute value and the rest of the blood count provide context.
What can affect it
- Basophils are normally scarce, so a single low count has little meaning in isolation.
From sample to follow-up
Your testing journey
Laboratory testAbsolute Basophil Count
- Specimen
- Whole Blood (EDTA)
- Turnaround
- 24 hours
Open your laboratory report
Look for Absolute Basophil Count in your report. Use the sample type and collection time when comparing it with an earlier report.
Explore Smart Report
Discuss the next step
Locate the absolute number as well as the percentage on your report, then compare with the other white cell groups.
Clinical expertise
Your laboratory team
Patient questions
Before you book
Why is an absolute count different from a percentage?
The percentage depends on the other white cells present. The absolute number helps a clinician see whether basophils themselves have changed.
Why might a basophil result need a blood film?
Automated analysers count basophils less precisely than the commoner white cells, so a borderline or unexpected result is often confirmed on a blood film, where the cells are examined under the microscope. A repeat sample is occasionally requested if the first one has clotted or reached the laboratory late.
Can steroids or an allergy flare-up affect my basophil count?
An acute allergic reaction or infection can temporarily lower the basophil count. Tell your clinician when your symptoms occurred and which steroid medicines you use. The count alone cannot identify the cause of an allergic reaction.
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Your next step
Absolute Basophil Count test at home.
Sources & further reading
Written by Dr Nirupama Sabhapathy, Specialist Clinical Pathology. Medically reviewed by Dr Joyce Jose, Specialist Clinical Pathology, on .
Catalogue information and AED price checked on 2 November 2026. Clinical suitability, preparation, collection arrangements and turnaround are confirmed for your selected test.