What is red blood cell sedimentation rate measurement for

The measurement of erythrocyte sedimentation rate is mainly used to screen for inflammation, infection, and immune diseases. The test results are affected by factors such as anemia, hyperglobulinemia, and tissue damage. It is often used clinically to assist in the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis, tuberculosis, systemic lupus erythematosus and other diseases.

1. Inflammation monitoring:

Elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate is most commonly observed in inflammatory reactions. When the body is infected or has autoimmune diseases, acute phase response proteins such as fibrinogen increase in the blood, promoting the aggregation and accelerated sedimentation of red blood cells. Acute infections such as bacterial pneumonia and pelvic inflammatory disease are usually accompanied by a significant increase in erythrocyte sedimentation rate.

2. Immune disease screening:

Patients with autoimmune diseases often have consistently high erythrocyte sedimentation rate values. During the active phase of rheumatoid arthritis, the erythrocyte sedimentation rate can exceed 100mm/h, while in the active phase of systemic lupus erythematosus, it is mostly maintained within the range of 50-80mm/h. This indicator can serve as an important reference for monitoring disease activity.

3. Infection assessment:

Chronic infections such as tuberculosis and subacute bacterial endocarditis will lead to moderate increase in ESR. The combined detection of erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein in clinical practice can better distinguish between bacterial and viral infections. Bacterial infections usually manifest as a significant increase in both simultaneously.

4. Tumor auxiliary diagnosis:

Hematological tumors such as multiple myeloma and lymphoma often cause abnormal elevation of erythrocyte sedimentation rate. Abnormal globulin secreted by malignant tumor cells alters the rheological properties of blood, leading to accelerated red blood cell stacking. But it is necessary to combine bone marrow puncture and other examinations to confirm the diagnosis.

5. physiological fluctuations:

During menstruation and mid to late pregnancy, the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) of women can increase physiologically, and the ESR value of elderly people is usually higher than that of young people. When severe anemia occurs, due to a decrease in the number of red blood cells, the sedimentation rate will be compensated and accelerated. After correcting anemia, the indicators can return to normal. Regular monitoring of erythrocyte sedimentation rate can help evaluate the progression of chronic diseases, and it is recommended to avoid vigorous exercise and high-fat diet before testing. Abnormal results need to be comprehensively judged based on indicators such as blood routine and C-reactive protein. Rheumatology and immunology specialists or infectious disease specialists will develop further examination plans based on clinical manifestations. Maintaining a regular schedule and balanced nutrition can help maintain stable blood indicators, and vitamin C and omega-3 fatty acids have a positive effect on improving chronic inflammation.