The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is a non-specific test that has been used to detect inflammation linked with diseases such as infections, cancer, and autoimmune diseases.I believe that after reading this post, you will have a clear understanding of what ESR is. This article discusses three aspects: when to test, what to test, and what the test results mean.

When to Have a ESR Test?

When your doctor suspects you have an inflammatory condition; when you have symptoms of temporal arteritis, systemic vasculitis, rheumatic polymyalgia, or rheumatoid arthritis, such as headaches, neck and shoulder pain, pelvic pain, anemia, loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss, and joint stiffness.

What to Test?

ESR test is a test that evaluates the level of inflammation in the body indirectly. The sedimentation rate of red blood cells in a blood sample placed in a tall, thin, vertical test tube is measured. When a blood sample is placed in a test tube, the red blood cells normally settle out slowly, leaving only a little amount of clear plasma. The rate of erythrocyte sedimentation is accelerated in the presence of higher amounts of proteins, particularly acute phase reactants.Inflammation raises blood levels of acute phase reactants such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and fibrinogen.

What the Test Results Mean?

1 hour after the test, the ESR results appear as clear fluid at the top of the tube. Because hematocrit is a nonspecific index of inflammation that is impacted by other factors, the results must be interpreted alongside other clinical findings, individual health history, and re-study results.

A Single Elevated ESR:

No symptoms of any specific disease.

Moderately Elevated ESR:

It is related to inflammation, as well as anemia, infection, pregnancy, and aging.

A Very High ESR:

There is generally a clear etiology, such as a severe illness resulting in elevated globulin, rheumatic polymyalgia, or temporal arteritis.When the condition is monitored over time, a raised ESR may signal greater inflammation or a poor response to treatment, whereas normal or decreased sedimentation may indicate an adequate response to treatment.

SUPERFIRT ESR Tubes are used to collect and transmit venous blood in preparation for sedimentation rate examinations. View other Wholesale Medical Supplies,Superfirt China Wholesale Supplier is ready to support you.Contact us.

Superfirt