Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) medical test
Learn about Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) medical tests, including what the tests are used for, why a doctor may order a test, how a test will feel, and what the results may mean.
What is Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) test?
An erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is a type of blood test that measures how quickly erythrocytes (red blood cells) settle at the bottom of a test tube that contains a blood sample. Normally, red blood cells settle relatively slowly. A faster-than-normal rate may indicate inflammation in the body.
What the Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) test is used for?
An ESR test can help determine if you have a condition that causes inflammation. These include arthritis, vasculitis, or inflammatory bowel disease. An ESR may also be used to monitor an existing condition. The ESR test can help your healthcare provider monitor autoimmune inflammatory conditions, such as:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
How is the procedure performed?
A blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm. You may want to wear a shirt with sleeves that can easily be rolled up to make it easier to collect the blood sample. This usually takes less than five minutes.
What will be the results interprets?
| ESR result | Man (mm/hr) | Woman (mm/hr) | Children (mm/hr) | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Below age 50 | Above age 50 | Below age 50 | Above age 50 | - | |
| Normal | 0 - 15 | 0 - 20 | 0 - 20 | 0 - 30 | 0 - 10 |
If your results are not in the normal range, it doesn't necessarily mean you have a medical condition that requires treatment. A moderate ESR may indicate pregnancy, menstruation, or anemia, rather than an inflammatory disease. Certain medicines and supplements can also affect your results. These include oral contraceptives, aspirin, cortisone, and vitamin A. Be sure to tell your health care provider about any drugs or supplements you are taking.