Eosinófilos Altos
Eosinophils: A Deep Dive into Their Role in Health and Disease
What Are Eosinophils?
Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the body's immune response. They are part of the body's defense system against allergens, parasites, and infections. Eosinophils are typically found in the blood and tissue, and their numbers can increase in response to certain conditions.
Functions of Eosinophils
Eosinophils have several important functions in the body, including: *
Fighting infections: Eosinophils can release toxic substances that kill parasites and bacteria. *
Killing cancer cells: Eosinophils can produce proteins that can damage cancer cells. *
Regulating inflammation: Eosinophils can release chemicals that help to reduce inflammation. *
Repairing tissue: Eosinophils can help to heal damaged tissue by releasing growth factors.
Causes of High Eosinophil Counts
High eosinophil counts can be caused by a variety of conditions, including: *
Allergies: Eosinophils are often increased in people with allergies, such as asthma, hay fever, and eczema. *
Parasitic infections: Eosinophils are also increased in people with parasitic infections, such as hookworm and roundworm. *
Certain cancers: Eosinophils can be increased in people with certain types of cancer, such as leukemia and lymphoma. *
Inflammatory bowel disease: Eosinophils can be increased in people with inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
Symptoms of High Eosinophil Counts
High eosinophil counts can cause a variety of symptoms, including: *
Swelling: Eosinophils can cause swelling in the face, hands, and feet. *
Itching: Eosinophils can cause itching of the skin. *
Wheezing: Eosinophils can cause wheezing and shortness of breath. *
Fatigue: Eosinophils can cause fatigue and weakness.
Treatment for High Eosinophil Counts
The treatment for high eosinophil counts depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, no treatment is necessary. In other cases, treatment may include: *
Medication: Medications can be used to reduce inflammation and kill parasites. *
Allergy shots: Allergy shots can help to reduce the symptoms of allergies. *
Surgery: Surgery may be necessary to remove a parasitic infection.
Conclusion
Eosinophils are an important part of the body's immune system. They play a role in fighting infections, killing cancer cells, regulating inflammation, and repairing tissue. High eosinophil counts can be caused by a variety of conditions, and the treatment depends on the underlying cause.