This lab test is also known as the sedimentation rate, or “sed” rate for short. It is also called the Westergren sedimentation rate. It is an easy and inexpensive test that has been used to detect the presence of acute or chronic inflammation. ESR does not provide specific information about inflammation, only that it is present. For that reason, it is usually used in conjunction with other tests. Even if the ESR normal, it doesn’t automatically rule out inflammation. Sometimes the test is used to monitor the severity of an inflammatory condition over time. If the ESR increases over time, it may be an indication that the therapy being used to reduce inflammation is not effective.
ESR can be affected by things other than inflammation. Moderately elevated ESR occurs with inflammation, but also with anemia, infection, pregnancy, and old age. Certain drugs, like dextran, methyldopa, oral contraceptives, penicillamine procainamide, and theophylline can increase ESR. Vitamin A can also increase it. Aspirin, cortisone, and quinine may decrease it.
