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Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate in Hematology

Use and limits of a classic acute phase marker

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Hematoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate in Hematology?

Erythrocyte sedimentation rate measures the distance red cells fall in a vertical anticoagulated tube over one hour. Plasma proteins, especially fibrinogen and immunoglobulins, reduce the negative charge between cells and accelerate rouleaux formation, increasing the rate.

Clinical uses include diagnosis and monitoring of giant cell arteritis, polymyalgia rheumatica, rheumatoid arthritis, and infections such as endocarditis or osteomyelitis. Markedly elevated values above one hundred millimeters per hour suggest temporal arteritis, multiple myeloma, severe infection, or active malignancy.

Limitations include slow response to change, false elevation in pregnancy, anemia, and chronic kidney disease, and false low values with polycythemia, microcytosis, and hypofibrinogenemia. C reactive protein responds more quickly and is preferred for acute monitoring, while erythrocyte sedimentation rate complements assessment of chronic inflammatory disease.

Symptoms

Headaches and jaw claudication in giant cell arteritis
Morning shoulder and hip stiffness in polymyalgia
Joint inflammation in rheumatoid disease
Fever and weight loss in occult infection
Bone pain in osteomyelitis

Risk Factors

Older age with vasculitis suspicion
Chronic inflammatory rheumatic disease
Active or treated malignancy
Pregnancy and oral contraceptive use
Severe anemia or hyperproteinemia

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When new headache appears in older adult
  • When persistent unexplained fever occurs
  • When chronic joint inflammation persists
  • When acute phase markers diverge from clinical picture
  • When monoclonal gammopathy is suspected

Treatment Methods

01
Standard Westergren method measurement
02
Pairing with C reactive protein for acute monitoring
03
Adjustment of interpretation for age and sex
04
Repeat testing during disease course
05
Investigation of values above one hundred
06
Disease specific therapy guided by clinical context
07
Avoidance of overinterpretation of mild elevations

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Hematoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.