Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR)

A blood test called an ESR, or erythrocyte sedimentation rate, gauges how quickly red blood cells (RBCs) accumulate at the base of a tube containing a blood sample. The test is frequently used to aid in the diagnosis of inflammatory diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.

Requirements:

  • A blood sample collected in an 3.8% trisodium citrate tube
  • A Westergren tube with a calibrated scale
  • A timer or stopwatch
  • Proper disposal system for bio hazardous materials

Principles:

The ESR calculates the rate at which RBCs accumulate in a column of blood that has undergone anticoagulation. In order to stop blood from clotting, an anticoagulant solution is added to the blood before it is collected into an EDTA tube. After then, the tube is turned upright to give the RBCs time to settle, red cells aggregate, stack together to form rouleaux, and sediment through the plasma. The ESR is a measurement and a record of how far the RBCs have dropped during a given period.

Procedure:

  1. Collect a blood sample in an trisodium citrate tube
  2. Carefully pipette the blood sample into the Westergren tube
  3. Place the Westergren tube on a stand in an upright position
  4. Start the timer or stopwatch for exactly one hour
  5. Measure the distance the RBCs have fallen using the calibrated scale
  6. Record the ESR value in mm/hour

Results:

Age and gender affect the typical range for ESR. Men's normal range is typically 0-15 mm/hour, whereas women's normal range is 0-20 mm/hour. Lower numbers can suggest anaemia or other blood problems, whereas higher values can indicate inflammation or infection.

QC:

It is crucial to follow suitable laboratory procedures, such as equipment calibration, adherence to manufacturer's guidelines for sample collection and handling, and regular involvement in external quality assurance programmes, in order to guarantee the accuracy and precision of the ESR test.

Interpretation:

ESR is a non-specific test that cannot by itself identify a particular disease. It aids in the diagnosis and follow-up of inflammatory diseases when used in conjunction with other laboratory tests and clinical assessments. An inflammatory condition may be present if the ESR value is high, while a non-inflammatory disease may be present if the ESR value is low or normal. However, a qualified healthcare professional should interpret the ESR number in conjunction with other clinical and laboratory data.

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