Determine the significance and clinical use of Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate in clinical practice
Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate- ESR
The Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) test measures sedimentation of Red Blood Cells (RBCs).
In normal conditions, RBCs settle or sediment very little.
Inflammation affects proteins in the blood causing RBCs to stick and settle together out of the liquid portion of the blood.
Identifies inflammation which assists in diagnosing:
Normal – 0-20 mm/hr
Increased
Conditions:
Medications:
What would cause decreased levels?
Decreased
Conditions:
Medications:
