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Test Code ESR Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR), Blood

Important Note

When possible, testing should be started within 4 hours of collection if the sample will be held at room temperature. Otherwise, the sample is stable for 24 hours when refrigerated.

Performing Laboratory

MaineGeneral Medical Center

Specimen Requirements

Draw blood in a lavender-top (K2-EDTA) tube(s). For pediatric specimen, collect 1 lavender-top (K2-EDTA) BD MICROTAINER® MAP microtube filled to 500uL. Invert 6 times to mix blood..  If a CBC is also required with the ESR, 2 lavender-top EDTA BD MICROTAINER® MAP tubes would be required. Send whole blood refrigerated. Label specimen with patient’s name (first and last), date of birth, date and time of draw and the phlebotomist’s initials.

*Collection tube must be filled to ½ of its intended total volume to ensure adequate blood to anticoagulant ratio. 

Specimen stability:   4 hours at room temperature
                                    24 hours refrigerated at 2-8°C
                                 
Minimum volume:    500  µL

Specimen rejection criteria:
Clotted blood

Hemolysis
Specimens that are >4 hours old unrefrigerated
Collection tube is less than one-half its intended volume
Improper patient identification
 

Day(s) Test Performed

Monday through Sunday

Test Classification and CPT Coding

85652

Reference Values

Males

<50 years of age:  <15 mm/hour

>50 years of age:  <20 mm/hour

Females

<50 years of age:  <20 mm/hour

>50 years of age:  <30 mm/hour