Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) Test
1. Objective
The objective of the test was to measure the rate at which red blood cells settled at the bottom of a vertical tube over a specified period, helping to detect inflammation in the body.
2. Principle
The test was based on the principle that red blood cells settle faster in the presence of increased plasma proteins, such as fibrinogen and immunoglobulins, which occur during inflammation. The distance the RBCs fell in a given time was measured and expressed in millimeters per hour (mm/hr).
3. Materials
• Patient’s blood sample (mixed with anticoagulant)
• Westergren or Wintrobe ESR tube
• Anticoagulant (sodium citrate)
• ESR stand
• Timer
• PPE (gloves, lab coat)
4. Procedure (Microscopic/Analytical)
1. Blood was collected by venipuncture and mixed with sodium citrate anticoagulant in a 4:1 ratio.
2. The mixture was drawn into a Westergren tube up to the zero mark.
3. The tube was placed vertically in an ESR stand.
4. The level of clear plasma at the top of the column was recorded after 1 hour.
5. The ESR was reported in mm/hr.
5. Result
• Increased ESR: Indicated possible inflammation, infection, autoimmune disease, or other conditions.
• Normal ESR: No significant inflammatory activity detected.
• Decreased ESR: Rare, but could occur in conditions like polycythemia.
6. Uses
• To detect inflammation and monitor inflammatory diseases
• To aid in the diagnosis of autoimmune and infectious diseases
• To monitor treatment response in inflammatory conditions
7. Consultation
Patients with abnormal results were advised to consult a physician for further evaluation, additional tests, and diagnosis of the underlying cause.
[C] MediLab BD/Earth of Story
Comments
Post a Comment