Evaluation of Prevalence and Clinical Symptoms in Patients with Eosinophilia Using Peripheral Smear Method: A Retrospective Study

Abstract

Background: Eosinophilia is a common hematological abnormality associated with diverse clinical conditions, including allergic disorders, parasitic infections, and hematological malignancies. The peripheral smear method remains an essential tool for initial evaluation, allowing morphological assessment of eosinophils and concurrent hematological abnormalities. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the prevalence, demographic patterns, and clinical symptoms in patients with eosinophilia diagnosed based on peripheral smear examination.

Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted including 80 patients with peripheral blood eosinophilia (absolute eosinophil count >500 cells/μL) diagnosed in February 2026. Demographic data, clinical presentations, and peripheral smear findings were analyzed. Eosinophilia severity was classified as mild (500-1500/μL), moderate (1500-5000/μL), and severe (>5000/μL). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26.

Results: Among 80 patients, 56.3% (n=45) were males and 43.7% (n=35) were females (male:female ratio 1.3:1). The mean age was 38.6 ± 16.4 years (range 5-78 years). The majority of patients (26.3%) belonged to the 21-30 years age group. Mild eosinophilia was most prevalent (47.5%), followed by moderate (36.2%) and severe (16.3%). The most common clinical symptoms were fever (41.3%), cough (37.5%), and skin manifestations including rash and pruritus (33.8%). Peripheral smear examination revealed toxic granules in eosinophils among 28.8% of patients, predominantly in those with moderate-to-severe eosinophilia. Concurrent anemia (hemoglobin <12 g/dL) was observed in 51.3% of patients.

Conclusion: Eosinophilia affects predominantly young adults with a slight male predilection. Fever and respiratory symptoms are the commonest presenting complaints. Peripheral smear examination provides valuable morphological information and should complement absolute eosinophil count in initial evaluation. The high prevalence of concurrent anemia warrants comprehensive hematological assessment in these patients.