Complete Blood Count (CBC)Reported in %Basophils (percent)
The percentage of white cells that are basophils, normally a very small slice of the differential.
What it measures
Basophils carry histamine and take part in allergic responses. In healthy adults they are the rarest cells on a standard differential, often well under two percent. The percent is easy to over-read because the numbers are so small.
Why it is on the panel
Including basophils completes the differential. A true, sustained increase is uncommon and is the finding worth noticing.
How to read it
Glance at the percent, then confirm with the absolute basophil count. A reported percent of zero is a normal result on many differentials.
When it runs higher
Allergic reactions, hypothyroidism, and some chronic inflammatory states can nudge basophils up. A clearly and persistently high percent is uncommon and should be reviewed, because it can accompany certain blood disorders.
When it runs lower
A low or zero percent is an ordinary result. Acute allergic reactions and steroids can lower basophils further. It is not something people usually chase.
How to use this page
This page explains what the measurement is for. It is educational. Your Healiam report includes the reference interval for your age and sex, and a clinician reads that result with your history, medicines, and the rest of the panel. Talk with a clinician before changing diet, supplements, or treatment because of a number on a report.
Basos
Basos is part of the full panel.
No referral or insurance required.
One preventive draw covers this measurement and the rest of the Healiam panel. CLIA-certified results come back in days.