Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR): A fundamental test
Exploring the Importance of ESR in Diagnosing Inflammatory Conditions
What is ESR?
The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) test is a blood test. It detects inflammation in the body. It checks the rate at which red blood cells fall in a tube filled with blood over an hour. The test is nonspecific, but it tells us if there is inflammation. Often, other tests are added to this to understand or monitor inflammatory diseases.
How does the ESR test work?
In the ESR test, doctors take a blood sample and put it in a vertical tube. They then observe the rate at which red blood cells settle to the bottom. Results are often expressed in millimeters per hour and may vary based on age and sex. A high result may suggest inflammation. However, this test alone cannot identify the exact disease. That information comes from the Cleveland Clinic.
Why is ESR performed?
The doctor may request an ESR if the patient has symptoms that may indicate an inflammatory disease such as unexplained fever, weight loss, joint stiffness, or other similar disorders. Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and lupus are some of the pathological states for which this test can be indicative.
The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) test is a routine blood test that measures the rate at which red blood cells settle in a tube. This rate provides valuable insights into potential inflammation in the body. The test procedure is simple and does not require any special preparation from the patient, making it highly accessible.
Preparation and Results
As no special preparation is required before undergoing an ESR test, the process is straightforward and convenient for patients. Once the test is completed, the results are carefully analyzed and interpreted by a healthcare professional along with other relevant medical exams and diagnostic tests. Elevated or abnormal values may require further investigation to identify the exact cause of inflammation.
Sources