ESR Test (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate)

The ESR test is a simple blood test that measures how quickly red blood cells settle at the bottom of a test tube. The rate at which they settle is an indicator of inflammation in the body. A high ESR can be a sign of various inflammatory conditions such as infections, autoimmune diseases, and certain types of cancer.

The test is usually done to help diagnose conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and polymyalgia rheumatica, as well as to monitor the progress of these conditions and their response to treatment. It is important to note that a high ESR level is not specific to any particular condition and further testing may be needed to determine the cause of inflammation.

The ESR test is typically done by drawing a small sample of blood from a vein in the arm. The blood is then placed in a tall, thin tube and allowed to settle for a certain amount of time. The rate at which the red blood cells settle is measured in millimeters per hour (mm/hr). A normal ESR level can vary depending on age and gender, but generally ranges from 0 to 20 mm/hr in males and 0 to 30 mm/hr in females.