Sedimentation Rate (ESR), Modified Westergren
Also known as: Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate, ESR, Westergren Sedimentation Rate
Use
Evaluate the nonspecific activity of infections, inflammatory states, autoimmune disorders, and plasma cell dyscrasias
Special Instructions
The specimen should be whole blood collected in a lavender-top (EDTA) tube and inverted immediately eight to 10 times once filled. The test results are most reliable when the blood is less than two hours old.
Limitations
The ESR is of limited diagnostic value in cases of severe anemia, or in hematologic conditions that result in increased size/shape variation of RBCs like poikilocytosis, sickle cells or spherocytes. Extreme plasma viscosity will result in a decreased ESR. Hemolysis, clotted specimens, underfilled tubes, or mislabeling can cause test rejection.
Methodology
Other
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 4537-7
- 4537-7
Result Turnaround Time
1 day
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Whole Blood
Volume
Tube fill capacity
Minimum Volume
2 mL
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA) tube
Collection Instructions
Invert tube immediately eight to 10 times once tube is filled at time of collection.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerate.
Causes for Rejection
Hemolysis; clotted specimen; underfilled tube; specimen older than 24 hours; improper labeling; transfer tubes with whole blood; specimen received in any anticoagulant other than EDTA; specimen diluted or contaminated with IV fluid; patient specimen with presence of cold agglutinins or cryoglobulins; specimen received with plasma removed
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 24 hours |