Question

The client’s history indicates several allergic diseases including eczema and asthma as a child and hay fever as an adult. Which laboratory findings support this history? A. Moderate anemia B. Elevated eosinophil count C. Elevated C reactive protein D. Alkaline Phosphatase decreased

Short answer

B. Elevated eosinophil count

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Symptoms

Review the symptoms provided: eczema, asthma, and hay fever. These symptoms indicate allergic reactions and inflammation.

Identify Common Laboratory Findings in Allergies

Consider which laboratory findings are typically associated with allergic reactions. Elevated eosinophil count is commonly seen in allergic diseases.

Analyze the Options

Look at the given options and match them with the common findings in allergic conditions: A. Moderate anemia – not specifically related to allergies. B. Elevated eosinophil count – indicative of allergies. C. Elevated C reactive protein – indicates general inflammation/infection, not specific to allergies. D. Alkaline Phosphatase decreased – unrelated to allergic reactions.

Select the Best Answer

The most appropriate laboratory finding that supports the history of several allergic diseases is an elevated eosinophil count (B).

Key concepts

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Allergic reactions are the body's way of responding to substances that are generally harmless to most people. Common allergens include pollen, pet dander, mold, and certain foods. When someone with allergies encounters an allergen, their immune system overreacts. This overreaction releases chemicals like histamines, which cause symptoms such as itching, swelling, and mucus production.
A person with a history of eczema, asthma, and hay fever likely has a hypersensitive immune system. These conditions are all linked to an overactive immune response to allergens. Knowing these symptoms helps healthcare providers diagnose and manage allergies more effectively. Allergy symptoms can range from mild to severe, but understanding and identifying them is key to providing appropriate care.

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Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell involved in the body's immune response. They play a crucial role in fighting off parasites and responding to allergens. When the body detects an allergen, eosinophils are activated and move to the site of the allergic reaction.
During an allergic reaction, the body ramps up the production of eosinophils, leading to an elevated eosinophil count in the blood. This is a clear indicator of allergies. In the context of our case with a history of eczema, asthma, and hay fever, an elevated eosinophil count supports the diagnosis of allergic diseases.
Other conditions can also lead to an elevated eosinophil count, including parasitic infections and certain autoimmune disorders. Therefore, it is essential to consider the patient’s medical history and symptoms to determine the cause accurately.

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Laboratory findings provide valuable information for diagnosing and managing allergic reactions. Common tests include blood tests to check for elevated eosinophil counts, total IgE levels, and specific IgE levels for different allergens.
An elevated eosinophil count, as discussed, suggests an allergic response. Total IgE levels check the overall antibody response to allergens, while specific IgE tests can identify precise allergens causing the reaction.
For instance, skin prick tests or blood tests like the RAST (Radioallergosorbent Test) can pinpoint specific allergens. Also, spirometry and peak flow measurements can help assess asthma severity. These tests combined give a comprehensive view of the body's allergic status, aiding in accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning.