Absolute Basophils

What it is

Basophils are the least common type of white blood cell and play a role in allergic and inflammatory responses, releasing signals like histamine; the absolute count is the real number circulating per volume of blood. Because they're so rare, the automated analyzers most labs use are least precise for this particular count, and results vary noticeably between labs and between draws — a very small difference in cells counted can shift the number a lot. Clinicians therefore give little weight to a basophil count in isolation and read it alongside the total WBC, the rest of the differential, and your overall picture.

Typical range

Reference ranges vary between laboratories, and what is normal for you depends on your own history. Your own lab’s range is the one printed on your report.

Worth asking your clinician

• Given how small this count is, is my basophil result meaningful or within expected measurement variation?
• Does this value change anything when you look at my full CBC together?
• Is this something worth rechecking, or not clinically useful on its own for me?