Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate, ESR, Sed Rate

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Definition

The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), or sedimentation rate

(sed rate), is a measure of the settling of red blood cells in a

tube of blood during one hour. The rate is an indication of

inflammation and increases in many diseases.

Purpose

ESR is increased in rheumatoid diseases, most infections, and in

cancer . An advanced rate doesn't diagnose a specific disease, but

it does indicate that an underlying disease may be present.

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