RE: test question (Sed rate)

[Guest guest]

- here's an excerpt from

http://my.webmd.com/content/asset/yale_lab_tests_test_name_sedimentation_rat

e.html

Test Name -- Sedimentation Rate

Sed rate or erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR).

Purpose

To help detect autoimmune disorders, particularly vasculitis, but may also

be used to detect any hidden infection or inflammation and a large number of

other conditions.

How it works

Various inflammatory conditions, including autoimmune conditions, increase

the rate at which the red blood cells (erythrocytes) sink in a test tube and

form a sediment.

Preparation

None.

Test procedure

The blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm and sent to a laboratory

for analysis.

After the test

Follow procedure for drawing blood (see chapter 4).

Factors affecting results

Age.

Menstruation and pregnancy.

Anemia.

Kidney and thyroid disease and connective tissue disorders.

Certain infections.

Hormone disorders.

Cancer.

Interpretation

Although rates vary with measurement methods, in general normal

sedimentation rates are considered to be up to 10 millimeters an hour in men

and up to 20 an hour in women and the elderly.

Advantages

There's no risk.

Disadvantages

It detects infection or inflammation but not its cause.

It cannot confirm a specific diagnosis.

False-positive results may occur in healthy people.

The next step

If rate is elevated and appropriate symptoms are present, the test confirms

inflammation. If vasculitis is suspected, a skin or blood vessel biopsy may

be done. In other generalized autoimmune conditions, the test confirms

inflammation, and treatment may be initiated.

If rate is normal, the test indicates an absence of general inflammation,

and no further tests are necessary.

Hope this helps!

Arne

50 - UC 1977 - PSC 2000

Alive and (mostly) well in Minnesota

[Guest guest]

Thanks Arne... just what I waslooking for!