Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) Test
About erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) test
The Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate test (ESR test), also known as the Westergren ESR test, is one of the most widely used blood tests for detecting inflammation in the body. The ESR test measures how quickly red blood cells (erythrocytes) settle at the bottom of a vertical test tube over a period of one hour. Normally, red blood cells sink slowly. However, when inflammation is present, red blood cells clump together, making them heavier, and they sink faster. This faster sedimentation rate is detected by the Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate test.
The ESR test is not disease-specific, but it helps doctors detect inflammation caused by infections, autoimmune conditions, cancers, and chronic diseases. It is often used in combination with other tests for more accurate diagnosis. Among the available methods, the Westergren ESR test is considered the most accurate and reliable.
At Lupin Diagnostics, you can check the ESR test price or Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate test price before booking. With simple steps, you can book ESR test online or book Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate test online with options for home collection or visiting the nearest center.
Who should get tested?
An ESR test is recommended for individuals having symptoms of a condition causing inflammation
Head aches
Unexplained fever
Weight loss
Stiffness in the joints
Neck/shoulder pain
Loss of appetite
Anemia
What is ESR used for?
An ESR test is used to diagnose and monitor different health conditions causing inflammation like
Autoimmune disorders like vasculitis
Infections
Certain forms of arthritis
Inflammatory diseases like inflammatory bowel disease
Preparation for the test
The Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate test (ESR test) requires no special preparation. You don’t need to fast before the test, and you can continue with your normal diet. A small blood sample will be collected from a vein in your arm using a sterile needle.
The entire procedure is simple, quick, and usually completed in under five minutes. Patients can book ESR test online or book Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate test online through Lupin Diagnostics, where the ESR test price is clearly displayed. This ensures that you know the cost of the Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate test before undergoing the procedure.
Types of ESR tests
There are two main types of Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate tests:
- Westergren ESR test:
- The most commonly used method worldwide.
- Blood is drawn into a Westergren-Katz tube measuring 200 mm.
- The tube is left vertical at room temperature for one hour.
- The distance red blood cells fall is measured in millimeters per hour (mm/hr).
- The Westergren ESR test is highly accurate and sensitive.
- Wintrobe ESR test:
- Similar to the Westergren method but uses a shorter 100 mm tube.
- Less sensitive than the Westergren ESR test, especially for detecting mild inflammation.
At Lupin Diagnostics, the Westergren ESR test is typically performed because it is considered the gold standard. You can easily book ESR test online or book Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate test online with Lupin Diagnostics and review the ESR test price before booking.
Interpretation of results
The Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate test results are reported in millimeters per hour (mm/hr). Normal values may differ depending on age and sex:
|
Parameters |
Normal ESR test results |
|
Females under 50 years |
between 0 and 20 mm/hr |
|
Males under 50 years |
between 0 and 15 mm/hr |
|
Females above 50 years |
between 0 and 30 mm/hr |
|
Males above 50 years |
between 0 and 20 mm/hr |
|
Children |
between 0 and 10 mm/hr |
Some laboratories use different measurements and normal value ranges may vary slightly between laboratories.
Deviation from Normal ESR Levels
- Low ESR test results: May be due to conditions like congestive heart failure, polycythemia, severe liver disease, or sickle cell disease.
- Moderately elevated ESR test results: Can be caused by infections, anemia, pregnancy, or aging.
- Very high ESR test results: Usually point to severe infections, polymyalgia rheumatica, temporal arteritis, or cancers like multiple myeloma.
When used for monitoring, rising ESR levels suggest that inflammation is worsening or treatment is not working, while declining ESR levels indicate that treatment is effective. Affordable Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate test price options at Lupin Diagnostics make routine monitoring easier.
FAQs
How is the sample collected during an ESR test?
During the ESR test / Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate test, a healthcare professional collects blood from a vein in your arm using a sterile needle. The process takes only a few minutes and is safe. If you book ESR test online at Lupin Diagnostics, trained professionals ensure comfortable collection, and the ESR test price is provided in advance.
What is the turnaround time (TAT) for the results of an ESR test?
Most patients receive their ESR test results the same day. In some cases, reports may take longer. By choosing to book Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate test online, you can be assured of fast, accurate results at a transparent Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate test price
What are the risks associated with an ESR test?
The ESR test is very safe with negligible risk. Minor discomfort, bruising, or tenderness may occur at the puncture site, but these issues resolve quickly. Rarely, infection may occur. Patients who book ESR test online at Lupin Diagnostics benefit from strict safety protocols at all centers.
What factors can affect ESR test results?
Several factors may influence Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate test results, including pregnancy, aging, obesity, menstruation, or eating a fatty meal before testing. Medications like aspirin, corticosteroids, or statins may also impact ESR test results. For accuracy, always share your medical history with your doctor. Affordable ESR test price options make repeat testing convenient if required.
Should I be concerned if my ESR test result is abnormal?
Abnormal ESR test results may indicate underlying infections, autoimmune conditions, or cancers. However, since the Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate test is nonspecific, further tests are often required. Your doctor will interpret your ESR test results in relation to symptoms and history. Regular monitoring with the Westergren ESR test helps track disease progress. You can book Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate test online and confirm the ESR test price before booking.
How much does an ESR test cost?
The ESR test price and Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate test price at Lupin Diagnostics are kept affordable to encourage regular monitoring. Prices may vary slightly by location. Patients can view the exact cost before they book ESR test online, ensuring transparency and trust.
Can I book an ESR test online at Lupin Diagnostics?
Yes, you can easily book ESR test online or book Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate test online through the Lupin Diagnostics website or app. Home collection services and timely reports make it convenient. Clear information about the ESR test price is provided before booking, so patients know what to expect.
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