Erythrocyte sedimentation rate
The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), also called a sedimentation rate, sed rate or Biernacki Reaction, is a non-specific measure of inflammation that is commonly used as a medical screening test.
To perform the test, anticoagulated blood is placed in an upright tube and the rate at which the red blood cells fall is measured and reported in mm/h.
When an inflammatory process is present, the high proportion of fibrinogen in the blood causes red blood cells to stick to each other. The red cells form stacks called rouleaux which settle faster.
The ESR is increased by any cause or focus of inflammation. The basal ESR is slightly higher in females.
This test was invented in 1897 by the Polish doctor, Edmund Biernacki. In 1918 another scientist – Fahraeus declared the same. Fahraeus is still known as the inventor of ESR in the Western world although Fahraeus accepted that he wasn't the first.
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Uses
- to follow prognosis for temporal arteritis.
The Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) can be used to monitor inflammatory or malignant disease, rheumatic fever, and heart attack. Although it is a screening test (not considered diagnostic for any particular disorder), it is useful in detecting and monitoring tuberculosis, tissue necrosis (death), rheumatologic disorders, or an otherwise unsuspected disease in which symptoms are vague or physical findings are minimal.
Normal Values
Adults (Westergren method):
Men under 50 years old: less than 15 mm/hr.
Men over 50 years old: less than 20 mm/hr.
Women under 50 years old: less than 20 mm/hr.
Women over 50 years old: less than 30 mm/hr.
Children (Westergren method):
Newborn: 0 to 2 mm/hr.
Neonatal to puberty: 3 to 13 mm/hr.
Note: mm/hr. = millimeters per hour.
See also
External links
Categories: Medicine stubs | Medical tests