Laboratory Medicine

Test Directory / Erythrocyte Sedimentary Rate

Erythrocyte Sedimentary Rate

EDTA

Test	Erythrocyte Sedimentary Rate
Common Abbreviations	ESR
Profile
Clinical Indication	ESR can be used to aid diagnosis for many conditions associated with acute and chronic inflammation. Useful for temporal arteritis and polymyalgia rheumatica diagnosis.
Specimen Type	Blood
Sample Type	EDTA
Minimum Volume	1 x 3 mL (can be shared with a FBC sample)
Special Precautions	Must be at least half filled
Stability	24 hrs
Turnaround Time	1 hour (urgent) 4 hours (routine)
Laboratory	York Hospital
Reference Interval	Reference range printed on final report.
Limitations	Paediatric tube doesn't contain sufficient blood to run test. Can only be added to sample within 24hrs of collection.
Additional Information

Update for visitors

Visiting restrictions are in place at our hospitals to stop the spread of norovirus. These restrictions will be in place until further notice.

The following wards are closed to visitors:

York Hospital: Ward 29 and Ward 37.

There are four exceptions only to the restrictions. These are:

For patients who are receiving end of life care

Paediatric patients (babies and children)

Maternity care

The family carers of those with dementia

We understand these restrictions can be difficult when a loved one is unwell. The restrictions will be reviewed daily and lifted as soon as it is safe. Thank you for your understanding as we try to reduce the spread of norovirus in our hospitals.