Analyzer |
iSED |
Abbrev |
ESR |
Analyte |
Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate |
Department |
Hematology |
Specimen Type |
Whole Blood |
Alternate Specimen Type |
N/A |
Specimen Stability Requirements |
Transport refrigerated within 24 hours after collection |
Preferred Specimen |
3 mL K2 EDTA Whole Blood |
Minimum Volume |
0.5 mL |
Collection Instructions |
Falsely elevated ESR results may be caused by fibrinogen, gamma globulins, and/or high room temperature. Falsely decreased ESR results may be caused by low room temperature, delay in test performance greater than 2 hours, clotted blood sample, excess anticoagulant from the underfilled tube, foam from vigorous mixing, and/or abnormally shaped red blood cells, such as sickle cells or spherocytosis. |
Specimen Instructions |
Whole blood should be collected venous in EDTA-2K or EDTA-3K anticoagulant. Draw the specified amount of blood as per the package insert of the tube used. Invert tubes 8-10 times, do not shake as it may cause foaming or hemolysis. Insufficient, delayed, or inadequate mixing may result in platelet clumping, clotting, and/or incorrect test results. Store in a refrigerator at 2 to 8°C for up to 24 hours. |
Reasons for Rejection |
Improper labeling; quantity not sufficient for analysis; improper specimen type; expired stability; gross hemolysis; clotted specimen; fibrin interference. |
CPT Code |
85652 |