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Westergren erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) with centrifugation

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures how quickly red blood cells settle in a blood sample over time, which can help identify inflammation or infection in your body.

Quick summary

["The ESR helps doctors track conditions like arthritis, infections, or other inflammatory diseases."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
15174-6
Short code
Cryocrit Ser Spun Westergren
Synonyms
Cryocrit Ser Spun Westergren
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
spun-westergren-tube
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

How the Test Works

Your blood sample is placed in a special tube with an anticoagulant. After centrifugation (a spinning process), the red blood cells settle at the bottom, and the distance they travel is measured. This distance, called the sedimentation rate, reflects how quickly they settle.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood, similar to other blood tests. If you’re on blood thinners, let your doctor know before the test.

Common Uses and Conditions

Doctors use this test to diagnose or monitor conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, infections, or other inflammatory diseases. It’s also sometimes used to check for cancer or other systemic illnesses.

Possible Results and Interpretation

Results are not given in absolute numbers here because reference ranges vary by lab and individual factors. Instead, your doctor will compare your result to your medical history and other test results to interpret it.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

While ESR alone isn’t definitive for diagnosing conditions, it can signal inflammation. High ESR may indicate infections, autoimmune diseases, or other inflammatory processes. Low ESR might suggest chronic conditions or certain blood disorders, but further testing is needed for confirmation.

Short name

Westergren ESR

Frequently asked questions

What causes a high Westergren ESR?
A high ESR can be caused by infections (like pneumonia or urinary tract infections), inflammatory diseases (like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus), or other conditions that trigger the body’s immune response.
What causes a low Westergren ESR?
A low ESR might occur in chronic diseases (such as certain cancers or anemia), older adults, or people with low protein levels in the blood. It can also be normal in some individuals.
Does diet or activity affect this test?
Diet or light exercise usually doesn’t affect ESR results. However, severe dehydration or stress can sometimes influence it, so staying hydrated and resting before the test is recommended.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy