What is Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR)?
Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR), also known as the "sed rate," is a blood test that measures how quickly red blood cells settle to the bottom of a test tube over the course of one hour. This simple test serves as a non-specific marker of inflammation in the body[2][6].
When inflammation is present, certain proteins in the blood increase, causing red blood cells to clump together and settle faster. Our AI-powered report interpreter online analyzes your ESR results alongside clinical factors to provide comprehensive insights into your inflammatory status and potential health conditions[3][4].
How the ESR Test Process Works
The ESR test uses the Westergren method, where anticoagulated blood is placed in a tall, thin vertical tube and the distance that red blood cells fall is measured after exactly one hour[3][6].
Blood Collection: Sample drawn into EDTA tube
Tube Placement: Blood placed in vertical Westergren tube
Settlement Time: Red blood cells allowed to settle for 1 hour
Measurement: Distance fallen recorded in millimeters
Why ESR Is Essential for Detecting Inflammation
ESR serves as a valuable screening tool for various inflammatory conditions, infections, and certain cancers. When inflammation occurs, blood proteins like fibrinogen increase, causing red blood cells to form clumps called "rouleaux" that settle more rapidly[2][6].
- Early disease detection: Can indicate inflammation before specific symptoms appear
- Treatment monitoring: Tracks response to anti-inflammatory therapy
- Disease progression: Monitors chronic inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis
- Infection screening: Helps differentiate viral from bacterial infections[4][9]
Advanced AI Report Analysis
Our medical report analyser online uses sophisticated algorithms trained on millions of ESR test results to provide comprehensive inflammation analysis:
Analysis Capabilities:
- Age and gender-adjusted reference ranges
- Clinical significance assessment
- Multiple condition screening
- Trend analysis over time
Clinical Insights:
- Inflammatory disease screening
- Treatment response monitoring
- Follow-up testing recommendations
- Lifestyle modification guidance