Are you wondering what an ESR test is and why your doctor ordered one? An ESR test measures inflammation in the body. Learn about the ESR test normal range, causes of ESR test high results, and ESR test price.
What is an ESR Test?
An ESR test, or erythrocyte sedimentation rate test, is a blood test that checks for inflammation in your body. It measures how quickly red blood cells settle at the bottom of a test tube. A high ESR test result can indicate conditions like infections, autoimmune disorders, or even certain cancers. Your doctor may order this test if you have unexplained symptoms such as fever, pain, or weight loss.
What Does an ESR Test Measure?
The ESR test measures the rate at which red blood cells (erythrocytes) settle and form sediment in a tube of blood over one hour. Normally, red blood cells settle slowly, leaving the blood plasma clear. However, during inflammation, abnormal proteins cause the cells to clump together and settle faster. The ESR test normal range is:
- Men under 50: 0-15 mm/hr
- Men over 50: 0-20 mm/hr
- Women under 50: 0-20 mm/hr
- Women over 50: 0-30 mm/hr
An ESR test high result can be a sign of inflammation but does not identify the exact cause or location.
Why is an ESR Test Done?
Your doctor may order an ESR test, along with other blood tests, if you have symptoms of inflammatory conditions such as:
- Unexplained fever
- Joint pain or arthritis
- Muscle pain
- Headaches
- Anemia
- Weight loss
An ESR test high result can occur in conditions like:
- Infections (TB, bone infections, heart infections)
- Autoimmune diseases (lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, vasculitis)
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Some cancers (lymphoma, multiple myeloma)
- Kidney disease
The ESR test helps monitor disease activity and treatment response in some conditions.
ESR Test Procedure
The ESR test requires a blood sample usually drawn from a vein in your arm. Here's what you can expect:
- A healthcare provider ties an elastic band around your upper arm to make the vein swell with blood.
- They collect a small sample of blood in a tube and remove the needle.
- They send the blood sample to a lab for analysis using the Westergren method or an automated system.
You may feel a slight sting when the needle goes in or out. Afterwards, they will apply pressure and a bandage over the site. The procedure usually takes less than 5 minutes.
Interpreting ESR Test Results
The lab will send your ESR test results to your doctor, who will interpret them along with your symptoms and other test results. Remember, a high ESR test result does not diagnose a specific disease but rather detects inflammation.
However, a very high ESR (>100 mm/hr) is more likely to indicate a serious condition such as infection, autoimmune disease, or cancer. Your doctor may recommend imaging tests or a tissue biopsy to determine the underlying cause.
On the other hand, a normal ESR does not always rule out inflammation, especially in early disease. Your doctor may repeat the test or order more specific tests if needed.
Conclusion
The ESR test cost is affordable, and the test is widely available at most diagnostic laboratories. The ESR test price may vary slightly between labs but is generally inexpensive. Ask your doctor about getting an ESR test at a lab near you.
