sedimentationshastighetsanalys

Sedimentationshastighetsanalys, often abbreviated as SR or ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate), is a common laboratory blood test used to detect and monitor inflammation in the body. It measures the rate at which red blood cells, also known as erythrocytes, settle to the bottom of a blood sample over a specific period, typically one hour. The principle behind the test is that in the presence of inflammation, certain proteins, such as fibrinogen and immunoglobulins, increase in the blood. These proteins cause red blood cells to clump together, forming aggregates that are heavier and therefore settle faster.

A normal SR value varies depending on age and sex, with generally lower rates in younger individuals and higher rates in older individuals and women. Elevated SR levels are not specific to any single disease but indicate the presence of inflammation. Conditions that can cause an increased SR include infections, autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, and certain types of cancer. Conversely, a low SR is generally not clinically significant. The test is valuable for its simplicity and cost-effectiveness, serving as a useful screening tool and a way to track the progression or regression of inflammatory conditions in response to treatment. It is often used in conjunction with other diagnostic tests for a more complete picture of a patient's health.