Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR)
ESR, Westergren
Testing Information
Sample Type
Whole Blood
Test Codes
650200
CPT Code
85652
Testing Area
Core Lab - Hematology
Test Methodology
Excyte Mini - Automated Westergren
Reference Range
Female, 0-50 years: 0-20 mm/hrFemale, >50 years: 0-30 mm/hrMale, 0-50 years: 0-15 mm/hrMale, >50 years: 0-20 mm/hr
Expected Turnaround Time
Results Available 24 hours from Receipt
Specimen Collection Criteria
Collect one lavender top EDTA tube (minimum whole blood: 1 mL). Invert 6-8 times to ensure anticoagulant is well mixed with the blood. Refrigerate while waiting for specimen to be picked up.
Rejection Criteria
Quantity not sufficient, improperly labeled
Specimen Validity and Retention
Lavender EDTA Tubes:Room Temperature (20-25°C): 8 HoursRefrigerated (2-8°C): 24 hoursFrozen (-20°C or greater): UnacceptableSpecimens retained for 7 days after testing
Courier Transportation
Transport centrifuged tube refrigerated (2-8°C)
Clinical Utility
Erythrocyte sedimentation rates, when elevated, are markers of non-specific inflammation. This can be useful in managing acute and chronic infections, but particularly in those with rheumatoid arthritis.
