Non-specific but useful
ESR does not indicate the cause, but reacts sensitively to acute phase proteins: an increase confirms the activity of the process, a decrease indicates the effect of treatment. The doctor interprets the value taking into account age and gender (norms vary) and in conjunction with CRP and leukocytes; An isolated elevated ESR without complaints is a reason for routine further examination, not panic.
When is it appointed?
- prevention and medical examination - basic health assessment;
- inflammation, infections, temperature - leukocytes and ESR;
- weakness, pallor - exclusion of anemia;
- preparation for operations and procedures;
- control of treatment over time.
Basic trio of blood
General clinical tests answer the doctor’s first questions: is there anemia (hemoglobin, red blood cells, hematocrit), inflammation (white blood cells with formula, ESR), risk of bleeding (platelets, clotting time). The automatic analyzer counts dozens of parameters from one test tube; deviations are rechecked by smear microscopy by a laboratory technician. Same day results allow you to start treatment without delay.
