ABSOLUTE BASOPHIL COUNT (ABC)

An absolute basophil count (ABC) measures the number of basophils in a blood sample. Basophils are a type of white blood cell that help fight infection and allergens. 

A low absolute basophil count, or basopenia, can indicate conditions like severe infections, allergies, or an overactive thyroid, and may also be a sign of certain cancers or treatments like chemotherapy. 

High basophil levels may be a sign your body is reacting to an allergen or fighting an infection. Sometimes, high basophils are a sign of serious medical conditions like leukemia or an autoimmune disease. Your healthcare provider will need to do more tests to be sure.