Eosinophilic cationic protein (ECP)

ECP is a specific marker of eosinophil activity, which secrete this protein during allergic and inflammatory reactions. The concentration of ECP in the blood correlates with the severity of allergic reactions. Elevated protein levels may indicate allergic processes but are also found in non-allergic conditions such as bacterial sinusitis, respiratory syncytial virus infections, and kidney neoplasms. Test results should be interpreted together with other laboratory and instrumental examinations. ECP has cytotoxic activity, affects cell membranes, can exacerbate symptoms of atopic dermatitis, cause bronchial epithelial cell death, increase mucus secretion, and have toxic effects on the myocardium.

• Assessment of the severity of bronchial asthma, prediction of asthma attacks in seasonal asthma, monitoring of glucocorticosteroid therapy.
• Evaluation of the intensity of eosinophilic inflammation in parasitic and autoimmune diseases.
• Diagnosis of DRESS syndrome (drug hypersensitivity).
• Diagnosis of eosinophilic inflammation of the intestinal mucosa.
• Differential diagnosis between bronchial hyperreactivity and bronchial asthma.

FEIA (Fluorescent Enzyme Immunoassay) – quantitative determination.

• Blood should be drawn in the morning on an empty stomach or 8 hours after eating.
• Drinking plain still water is allowed.
• Do not smoke for 3 hours before the test.
• Avoid physical exertion and psycho-emotional stress for 30 minutes before the test.
• For children under 1 year – do not feed 30-40 minutes before the test; for children 1-5 years – 2-3 hours fasting.
• Avoid taking medications 12 hours before the test unless otherwise directed by a doctor.