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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

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

Day(s) Test Performed

Monday through Sunday

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
 

Test Classification and CPT Coding

85652