Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR)

What is the Lab Name for Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate?

Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate

What is the Lab Abbreviation for Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate?

ESR

What is Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate in terms of Nursing Labs?

The Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) test measures sedimentation of Red Blood Cells (RBCs).  The inflammatory process affects proteins in the blood which causes RBCs to stick together and settle out of liquid.  Normal blood has very little settling, but during the inflammatory process the ESR is elevated.

What is the Normal Range for Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate?

0-20 mm/h

What are the Indications for Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate?

  • Identifies inflammation which assists in diagnosing:
    • Cancer
    • Infection
    • Autoimmune diseases

What would cause Increased Levels of Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate?

  • Anemia
  • Chronic Renal Failure
  • Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
  • Infection
  • Tuberculosis
  • Pregnancy
  • Polymyalgia Rheumatica
  • Multiple myeloma
  • Medications:
    • Oral contraceptives
    • Theophylline
    • Vitamin A

What would cause Decreased Levels of Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate?

  • Sickle cell anemia
  • Polycythemia Vera
  • Leukocytosis
  • Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)
  • Medications:
    • Aspirin
    • Cortisone
    • Quinine

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