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10._Lab_tests_2

The document provides an overview of the Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR), detailing its measurement process, equipment used, and normal value ranges for males and females. It outlines precautions for setting up the test and factors influencing ESR, including plasma proteins and physiological/pathological conditions. The ESR is affected by various factors such as age, pregnancy, and red blood cell count, with specific conditions leading to increased or decreased rates.

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gihanransika99
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2 views10 pages

10._Lab_tests_2

The document provides an overview of the Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR), detailing its measurement process, equipment used, and normal value ranges for males and females. It outlines precautions for setting up the test and factors influencing ESR, including plasma proteins and physiological/pathological conditions. The ESR is affected by various factors such as age, pregnancy, and red blood cell count, with specific conditions leading to increased or decreased rates.

Uploaded by

gihanransika99
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Lab tests 2

Dr Chamarika Moonesinghe
Dept of Pathology
Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate
• It is the rate of downward descent of red cells
(RBC) in a vertical column of blood.
• The rate of sedimentation is determined by
surface area to volume ratio
• Erythrocyte sedimentation occurs in 3 stages
1. seperation of RBC from plasma – 10min
2. settling down of RBC – 40min
3. packing of RBC – 10min
• At least one hour is needed for all the above
steps to occur
• Therefore the ESR reading is taken after one
hour
Equipments:
• Tube -Westergren tube ( straight glass tube
calibrated from top to bottom 0 – 200 mm )
• Special stand.
• Citrated blood
Westergren tube for ESR.
Normal values :
-In males : 1st hr : 1-10mm

-In females : 1st hr : 3 -14mm


Precautions to be taken when setting
up an ESR
• Set up within 2hrs of collecting blood
• The tube should be vertical
• Keep away from sunlight/ wind
Factors determining the rate of sedimentation of RBCs

1- plasma proteins :
a- Albumin : If plasma albumin level is increased the ESR
decreases.
b- Fibrinogen and globulins : If plasma fibrinogen or globulin
level is increased the ESR increases.

2- Red cell count :


- If RBCs count is increased the ESR decreases.
Factors affecting ESR :

Physiological factors :

ESR is increased in : Old age, pregnancy.


ESR is decreased in : Newborn.
Pathological factors :
ESR is increased in : acute/chronic inflammation

ESR is decreased in : polycythaemia

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