What is an ESR test?
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is a blood test which measures the time taken for red blood cells to settle in a vertical tube. It is a relatively non-specific test that is related to the degree of inflammation in the body, which indirectly affects how avidly red blood cells clump together.
How is an ESR test performed?
ESR is a blood test, and requires a few millilitres of blood from a vein. It is important that the tube is filled to the correct level.
When would you need an ESR test?
An ESR is a relatively non-specific test that gives a limited idea about inflammation in the body. It is often requested for conditions such as:
- Arthritis
- Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis)
- Septic arthritis (infection in a joint)
- Giant cell arteritis (GCA, a condition which may occur with Polymyalgia Rheumatica – PMR)
An ESR test may be used to follow the progression or resolution of one of these illnesses as they are treated. Occasionally, the ESR is used to try to exclude one of these conditions, when the diagnosis is not clear.
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ESR test results explained
The ESR normally increases with advancing age. Generally, a high ESR indicates a higher degree of inflammation, although the ESR can be normal in the early stages of an illness. The ESR will usually fall with successful treatment or resolution of a condition, although it may lag behind the observed clinical improvement in symptoms.
Related specialists
- General Practitioner (GP)
- General Physician
- Orthopaedic Surgeon
- Gastroenterologist
- General Surgeon
- Immunologist
- Rheumatologist
- Emergency Physician
- Intensivist
- Paediatrician
- Infectious Disease Physician
- Ophthalmologist
Related procedures
- Blood Test (venesection)
- Joint Aspiration
Related Tests
- White Cell Count (WCC)
- Differential White Cell Count
- CRP (C-Reactive Protein)
- Bone and Joint X-Rays
- Abdominal CT
- Head CT
- Ultrasound Scan
- Microscopy, Culture and Sensitivity
Also known as
- Sedimentation rate
- Sed rate
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This article is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. If in doubt, HealthEngine recommends consulting with a registered health practitioner.
All content and media on the HealthEngine Blog is created and published online for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. Never disregard the advice of a medical professional, or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this Website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, go to the nearest hospital emergency department, or call the emergency services immediately.
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