Lab test · Hematology
Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR)
Inflammation marker
- Blood sample
- No fasting
- Report within 24 hours
- Home collection
What this test is for
Inflammation marker
The ESR measures how quickly red blood cells settle to the bottom of a tall, thin tube over a set time. When there is inflammation in the body, certain proteins make red cells clump together and settle faster, so the ESR rises. It is a simple, general marker of inflammation that is not specific to any one condition, so doctors usually use it with other tests.
Why a doctor may order it
- If you have an unexplained fever, weight loss or tiredness
- If you have joint pain and stiffness, to look for an inflammatory arthritis
- To follow inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis
- To help check for long-lasting infections such as tuberculosis
How to prepare
Fasting: Not needed.
Eat and drink normally beforehand; this test does not require an empty stomach. Carry on with your regular medicines unless your doctor has told you otherwise. If you are pregnant, mention it, as pregnancy naturally raises the ESR.
At home
- Sample
- Blood sample
- How it works
- A sample collector comes to your home and takes a small blood sample from a vein in your arm into a special tube. The whole draw takes a few minutes.
- Report
- Within 24 hours of collection.
What the results can mean
The ESR is reported as a single number next to the laboratory's reference range, which is higher for women and for older people. A raised ESR shows inflammation but cannot say where or why; it can go up with infection, autoimmune conditions, anaemia, pregnancy and some cancers. A normal ESR does not rule out disease. Your doctor will interpret it with your symptoms and other tests such as CRP.
What's included
One test: Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR), from one blood sample.
Related tests
- C-Reactive Protein (CRP), QuantitativeC-reactive protein (CRP) is a protein made by the liver in response to inflammation.
- CBC with ESRBlood count, infection & inflammation৳250
- Complete Blood Count (CBC)A complete blood count looks at the three main types of cells in your blood: red blood cells, which carry oxygen; white blood cells, which fight infection; and platelets, which help blood to clot.
- Rheumatoid Factor (RF)Rheumatoid factor (RF) is an antibody that the immune system can make against the body's own tissues.
- Platelet CountPlatelet count, bleeding & dengue৳150
- D-dimer TestBlood clot check৳910
Questions people ask
What does a high ESR mean?
A high ESR means there may be inflammation somewhere in the body. It can be caused by infections, arthritis, anaemia, pregnancy or other conditions, so your doctor will look for the cause with other tests.
Which is more useful, ESR or CRP?
They are used for different purposes. CRP changes quickly and shows current inflammation, while ESR changes slowly and is useful for following some long-term conditions. Doctors often order both.
Can ESR be high without any disease?
Yes. ESR naturally rises with age and in pregnancy, and anaemia can raise it. A slightly high ESR in someone who feels well is often not a concern, but your doctor will decide.
How much does a ESR test cost in Dhaka?
With Mukti Health the price is ৳100, and the sample is collected at your home in Dhaka. You see the price again before you confirm the booking in the Mukti Health app.
Can I do the ESR test at home in Dhaka?
Yes. Book it in the Mukti Health app and a trained sample collector comes to your home in Dhaka to take the blood sample. You do not need to go to a laboratory.
How long does the ESR report take?
The report is usually ready within 24 hours of the sample being collected.