Synonyms

ESR, Westergren Sedimentation Rate

Purpose

ESR measures the amount of time it takes for red blood cells to settle at the bottom in a test tube with a blood sample.

Patient Preparation

There is no special preparation required for this test.

Sample Type

4ml Whole blood collected in an EDTA (lavendar top) tube.

Sample Collection Instructions

Sample should be mixed gently by inverting eight times immediately after collection, for proper mixing of blood with the EDTA.

Sample Storage

Samples should be refrigerated if sampling is not done within 24hrs.

Reference Range

Males: 0-15 mm/hr.; Over 50 yrs.: 0-30 mm/hr.

Females: 0-30 mm/hr.; Over 50 yrs.: 0-40 mm/hr.

Results Turnaround

Within a day of sample collection.

Diseases / Diagnostic indicators

This test is done to check for inflammation from infections, autoimmune disorders or other causes, and to monitor treatment of the same.