ESR Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate Test
Understanding the ESR Test: Your Inflammation Indicator
The Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) test is a fundamental diagnostic tool that measures the rate at which red blood cells settle in a vertical tube over one hour. This simple yet powerful test serves as a non-specific marker of inflammation in the body, providing valuable insights into your overall inflammatory status and helping healthcare providers detect and monitor various medical conditions.
What Does the ESR Test Measure?
The ESR test specifically measures how quickly erythrocytes (red blood cells) fall to the bottom of a specialized tube. When inflammation is present in the body, certain proteins in the blood, particularly fibrinogen, increase and cause red blood cells to clump together. These heavier clumps settle faster than individual cells, resulting in an elevated sedimentation rate. The test is performed using the Westergren method, which is considered the gold standard for ESR measurement.
Who Should Consider ESR Testing?
ESR testing is recommended for individuals experiencing symptoms that may indicate underlying inflammatory conditions, including:
- Unexplained fever or persistent low-grade temperature
- Chronic fatigue and general malaise
- Joint pain, stiffness, or swelling
- Muscle aches and weakness
- Unexplained weight loss
- Headaches or vision changes
- Skin rashes or lesions
- Digestive issues suggesting inflammatory bowel disease
Clinical Applications and Benefits
The ESR test offers numerous clinical benefits for patients and healthcare providers:
- Early Detection: Identifies inflammatory processes before specific symptoms manifest
- Disease Monitoring: Tracks the progression of autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus
- Treatment Assessment: Evaluates the effectiveness of anti-inflammatory therapies
- Infection Screening: Helps detect and monitor bacterial and viral infections
- Risk Assessment: Provides insights into cardiovascular and chronic disease risks
- Cost-Effective Screening: Affordable testing at only $4 USD
Understanding Your ESR Test Results
ESR results are measured in millimeters per hour (mm/hr) and interpreted based on age and gender-specific reference ranges:
- Normal Range: Typically 0-20 mm/hr for men and 0-30 mm/hr for women, though ranges vary by laboratory
- Mild Elevation: May indicate minor inflammation, aging, or pregnancy
- Moderate Elevation: Suggests active inflammation from infections or autoimmune conditions
- Significant Elevation: Often associated with serious inflammatory diseases, infections, or malignancies
It’s important to note that ESR is a non-specific test, meaning elevated results require further investigation to determine the exact cause. Your healthcare provider will consider your ESR results alongside other clinical findings, symptoms, and additional laboratory tests.
Test Details and Pricing
| Test Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Test Name | ESR Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate Test |
| Discount Price | $4 USD |
| Regular Price | $4 USD |
| Turnaround Time | Daily Results |
| Sample Type | 3 mL (1.5 mL min.) whole blood in 1 Lavender Top (EDTA) tube |
| Method | Capillary Photometry / Westergren |
| Specialty | Physician |
| Pre-test Instructions | Overnight fasting is preferred |
Nationwide Accessibility
We have testing branches conveniently located across all major cities in the United States, including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, Phoenix, Philadelphia, San Antonio, San Diego, Dallas, San Jose, and many more. Our extensive network ensures that high-quality ESR testing is accessible to patients nationwide.
Take Control of Your Health Today
Don’t let unexplained symptoms go unchecked. The ESR Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate test provides valuable insights into your inflammatory status and can help identify underlying health concerns. With our affordable pricing of just $4 USD and daily turnaround times, getting the information you need has never been easier.
Ready to schedule your ESR test? Call or WhatsApp us today at +1(267) 388-9828 to book your appointment at any of our nationwide locations. Our experienced healthcare professionals are ready to provide you with accurate testing and comprehensive care.
