Bloody Minded Episode 59 - A Bad (eosino-)Feeling | Approach to Eosinophilia
Aug 26, 2025
Dive into the world of eosinophils, those intriguing white blood cells that battle everything from parasites to pollen! Discover how these cells, once heroes against helminths, now spark allergies and complex health issues. The conversation between hosts is both informative and humorous, discussing the challenges of diagnosing eosinophilia, its implications, and unique case studies. Explore advanced diagnostic techniques and treatment options as the banter reveals the lighter side of a serious medical topic. Tune in for a blend of science and wit!
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Eosinophils Are Tissue-Dominant Granulocytes
- Eosinophils are mature granulocytes with bilobed nuclei and eosinophilic granules visible on microscopy.
- They dwell predominantly in tissues so blood counts often underestimate tissue burden.
Use Practical Cutoffs For Urgency
- Define mild eosinophilia as >0.45x10^9/L and hyper-eosinophilia as persistent >1.5x10^9/L or tissue eosinophilia.
- Use repeat testing and consider tissue evidence rather than waiting six months to act.
Eosinophils Can Cause Multi-Organ Damage
- Prolonged tissue eosinophil infiltration causes organ damage like myocarditis progressing to restrictive cardiomyopathy.
- Eosinophilic disease can affect skin, lungs, GI tract and CNS with constitutional symptoms.
