Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate

ESR Westergren ESR Sed Rate
EDTA whole blood mm/h

About this test

Rate at which erythrocytes fall through plasma. Elevated by increased acute-phase proteins (especially fibrinogen) and immunoglobulins. Non-specific; rises more slowly and falls more slowly than CRP.

Reference Ranges

Sex Age Range Notes
Female 18–50 yrs < 20 Female <50
Female ≥ 50 yrs < 30 Female ≥50
Male 18–50 yrs < 15 Male <50 years
Male ≥ 50 yrs < 20 Male ≥50

Clinical Interpretation

High / Increased
Infection, inflammation (RA, SLE, vasculitis, PMR, GCA — ESR is key for GCA monitoring), malignancy (particularly myeloma, lymphoma), anaemia, paraproteinaemia, pregnancy.

Related Tests

Specimen
EDTA whole blood
Reporting Unit
mm/h

⚠ Clinical Note
Reference ranges are indicative. Always interpret results in the context of the individual patient and local laboratory reference intervals, which may vary.