Understanding Lab Tests for Parasitic Infections
Written by Private MD Labs Medical Writing Team • Last Updated: September 8, 2025
Parasitic infections are caused by organisms such as protozoa, helminths (worms), and ectoparasites that live in or on the human body. While definitive diagnosis typically requires stool samples or tissue examination to identify the specific parasite, blood tests play a crucial supporting role by detecting the body's immune response to these infections.
Recommended Test
Post COVID-19 Expanded Panel
This comprehensive panel includes eosinophil count measurement, which is particularly valuable for parasitic infection assessment. Elevated eosinophil levels are a common immune response to parasitic infections, as these specialized white blood cells are specifically involved in fighting parasites and can indicate the presence of an ongoing parasitic infection.
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Why Blood Testing is Important for Parasitic Infections
Blood tests are fundamental for assessing how your immune system responds to parasitic infections. Certain white blood cells, particularly eosinophils, often increase significantly when parasites are present, providing valuable clues about possible infection and helping healthcare providers determine the need for further specialized testing.
Understanding Eosinophil Response
Eosinophils are specialized immune cells that increase in number when the body encounters parasites. This elevation, called eosinophilia, serves as an important marker that can alert healthcare providers to investigate further for parasitic infections, especially when combined with relevant symptoms or travel history.
Important Considerations
The information here is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. Additional specialized testing may be needed to identify specific parasites.
