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Serum/Plasma Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) by Immunoassay

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

This test measures how quickly red blood cells settle in a sample of your blood over time. It can help identify conditions that cause inflammation in your body.

Quick summary

["ESR helps detect inflammation, which may signal infections, autoimmune diseases, or other health issues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
14228-1
Short code
ER+ cells NFr Tiss ImStn
Synonyms
ER+ cells NFr Tiss ImStn
Category
coagulation
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
immune-stain
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

What Is ESR Used For?

ESR is commonly used to monitor conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or infections. It’s not a definitive test but can signal when further investigation may be needed.

How Is ESR Performed?

A small blood sample is drawn, and it’s placed in a tube with an anticoagulant. Over time, red blood cells settle at the bottom, and the distance they travel is measured. The result reflects how quickly this happens.

Why Might You Need an ESR Test?

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like joint pain, fever, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss. It’s also used during follow-ups for chronic conditions.

What Do ESR Results Mean?

Higher ESR levels may indicate inflammation, but they don’t always point to a specific cause. Your doctor will consider your symptoms and other test results to interpret the results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

ESR

Frequently asked questions

Why is ESR sometimes called a ‘non-specific’ test?
ESR is considered non-specific because it doesn’t point to a single disease. Instead, it shows whether inflammation is present, which can help guide further testing for conditions like infections, autoimmune diseases, or cancer.
How long does it take to get ESR results?
Results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time.
Can diet or exercise affect ESR levels?
Diet and exercise generally do not significantly affect ESR levels, but chronic inflammation or underlying health conditions may influence them.
  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