There are millions of cells in our body. Each of them fulfills its role. Blood cells, for example, erythrocytes and leukocytes, are important in our life. There are several types of white blood cells. Next, we will focus on one of their representatives - basophils.
What function do basophils perform in the body?
What are basophils?
Basophils are a type of leukocytes, blood cells. They are round in shape. Their core is divided into segments. When stained with alkaline dyes, they acquire a dark purple coloration. This makes them stand out in the blood smear among neutrophils and eosinophils.
Where are they formed?
Like all blood cells, basophils are formed in the bone marrow. Basophilic precursors are basophilic myeloblasts.
All granulocytic leukocytes (basophils, neutrophils, eosinophils) have a common precursor - the myeloblast cell. From it, in the course of differentiation, the corresponding cells develop.
Basophils are granulocytic leukocytes. This means that the cytoplasm of these cells contains granules containing various substances.
Content in the blood
Basophils in the blood are normally contained in very small quantities. There are two ways to express the number of basophils: absolute and relative. Relative - the number of basophils and other leukocytes is calculated per 100 counted cells. Absolute - expressed in the number of cells per 10 * 9 per liter of blood.
Normally, the relative number of basophils is 0 - 1%. Absolute - 0.01 - 0.065 per 10 * 9 per liter.
Main functions
The functions performed by basophils are determined by the content of their granules. The granules contain various substances, for example, serotonin, histamine, prostaglandins, in general, mediators of allergic and inflammatory reactions.
Therefore, basophils determine the development of the reaction of inflammation and allergy.
Why are basophils elevated?
The condition when the basophils are elevated is called basophilia. It occurs in allergic reactions, since basophils secrete allergy mediators. Allergies can be confirmed by eosinophil levels.
Eosinophils are also a type of white blood cell containing granules. They will be increased in case of allergic reactions and in the presence of a parasite in the body.
The most unfavorable cause of an increase in the level of basophils in the blood is myeloproliferative and malignant diseases. For example, chronic myeloid leukemia. It is confirmed by the presence of atypical cells in the blood, blasts. This type of leukemia is characterized by an eosinophilic-basophilic association, that is, an increase in both the level of basophils and eosinophils in the blood.
The fact that basophils are increased in a child can only be indicated by relative numbers, absolute numbers are normal. Blood should be re-donated, as there is a possibility of incorrect counting of basophils.
In cases where the absolute content of basophils is increased, cell counting is not required. Consultation of a specialist is required.
Low basophil content
This raises the question - how can a low content of basophils be detected, if normally they may not be found in the blood? Here we will talk about the option when the basophils in the blood are increased, but there are a number of factors that reduce the level of basophils in the blood to normal values.
The level of basophils in the blood can decrease when:
- increased functioning of the thyroid gland;
- taking prednisolone.
What analysis allows you to determine the level of basophils?
The level of basophils in the blood can be detected in 2 ways.
- Modern hematology analyzerwhich is capable of counting a variety of granulocytes.
- Microscopic examination of a stained blood smear - calculation of the leukocyte formula.
How to prepare for analysis?
To study the level of basophils, blood is donated: venous or capillary. It is necessary to prepare for donating blood.
It is important to donate blood on an empty stomach. Babies should not be fed for half an hour before donating blood. Children under 3 - 4 years old - 4 hours. Older children are advised to donate blood after an overnight fast.
It is recommended not to stress your child. On the eve before the study, do not load with excessive physical activity - live this day as usual.
If you are prescribed any medications, talk to your doctor about their effect on the study results.
In case of prescribing any physiotherapy or other research methods to the patient, first of all donate blood. For example, X-rays change the quantitative composition of blood.
The essence of the determination method
Let us dwell on the most commonly used method for calculating the number of basophils - the leukocyte formula. Its essence lies in counting 100 leukocyte cells, divided by types:
- segmented neutrophils;
- stab neutrophils;
- eosinophils;
- basophils;
- lymphocytes;
- monocytes;
- young forms, blast cells, and so on.
That is, you can look at a blood smear and roughly imagine what happens to the blood cells.
Where can I get tested?
Analysis of the level of leukocytes, including basophils, is included in the CBC. Therefore, it can be done free of charge under the compulsory health insurance policy (MHI) in your local polyclinic. Also, this analysis can be passed for a fee in centers equipped with the necessary equipment. The issue price is 200 - 400 rubles. A plus to this amount will be the cost of taking blood from a vein or finger.
How to correct basophil levels?
In order to correct anything, it is necessary to find out the cause of this condition. After you see your doctor about your problem, he will give you advice on correction methods.
Do not self-medicate, it can be detrimental to your and your child's health.
Tips for parents
If your child has an increased level of basophils, you should consult a doctor for a detailed examination. In order not to miss the opportunity to help your child while it is still possible.
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