Hypereosinophilic Syndrome (HES)

How is HES diagnosed?

Tests to diagnose HES include a complete blood count and a medical examination to determine whether there is organ damage.

There are 3 requirements for a diagnosis of HES:

• Eosinophil counts are elevated (more than 1500 per microliter) for at least 6 months
• Causes such as infection or allergy have been ruled out
• There is evidence of organ damage

 

What are the prospects for people with HES?

Prospects for people with HES vary from person to person. It depends on how severe the disease is, which bodily organs are affected, and the success of treatment. In some cases, HES may be fatal.

 

Can HES be eliminated from the body?

HES cannot be eliminated, but it can often be treated.

 

How is HES treated?

Treatment of HES depends on which bodily organs are involved and how severe the disease is. The most common treatment for HES consists of high doses of steroids (medications in the cortisone family). Other treatments include medications that suppress the immune system, and anticancer therapies.

 

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