Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate ( ESR )

Also known as : Sed rate; Sedimentation rate; Westergren sedimentation rate .
Formal name : Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate .
Related tests : C-reactive protein ( CRP ) ; ANA ; RF .

Why should I do it ?
To determine the presence of one or more types of conditions , including infections , tumors, inflammation , and those leading to the breakdown or decreased function of tissue or organs ( degenerative ) , and/or to monitor the progress of disease or effect of therapy .

When should I do it ?
When your doctor thinks that you might have a condition ( see above ) and to monitor the course of temporal arteritis , polymyalgia rheumatica , or rheumatoid arthritis

What Kind of Sample is Needed ?
A blood sample drawn from a vein in the arm .

Test Preparation Needed ?
None .