Basophilia: Test Your Understanding
Prev
1 / 5 Next
Prev
1 / 5 Next
What does the term basophilia mean?
a
A low number of basophils
b
A higher-than-normal number of basophils, a rare type of white blood cell
Basophilia refers to an increased number of basophils on a blood test.
c
An infection caused by basophil
d
A problem with red blood cells
Basophils are a type of which blood cell?
a
Red blood cell
b
Platelet
c
White blood cell
Basophils are part of the immune system and belong to the white blood cell family.
d
Stem cell
Why can even a small increase in basophils look concerning on a lab report?
a
Basophils usually circulate in very small numbers
Because basophils are rare, small numeric changes can appear dramatic on paper.
b
Basophils are normally very large cells
c
Basophils are only seen in cancer
d
Basophils replace other white blood cells
What is the most common reason mild basophilia is found?
a
A serious blood cancer
b
A temporary, reactive response such as allergy, inflammation, or infection
Most cases of basophilia are mild and reactive rather than due to a primary blood disorder.
c
Iron deficiency
d
Dehydration alone
When does basophilia usually need closer follow-up?
a
When it appears once at a very low level
b
When blood is drawn later in the day
c
When it is persistent or occurs with symptoms or other abnormal blood counts
Doctors focus on persistence, patterns over time, and the overall clinical picture when deciding whether further evaluation is needed.
d
When the patient feels well
Prev
1 / 5 Next