✍️ Written by the MedTestBD Editorial Team · Last reviewed: July 2026
What is the ESR Test?
The ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate) test measures how quickly red blood cells settle to the bottom of a test tube over one hour. When there is inflammation, infection, or tissue damage in the body, proteins in the blood cause red blood cells to clump together and sink faster than normal. ESR is a non-specific marker — it tells you that something is wrong but not what exactly. It is one of the oldest and most widely used inflammatory markers in medicine.
Why is the ESR Test Done?
- To detect and monitor inflammation — useful in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and vasculitis
- To investigate unexplained fever, fatigue, or weight loss
- To support the diagnosis of temporal arteritis and polymyalgia rheumatica — where ESR is typically very high
- To monitor disease activity and treatment response in inflammatory and autoimmune conditions
- To screen for tuberculosis (TB) — ESR is frequently elevated in active TB
- As part of a general inflammatory workup alongside CRP and full blood count
Normal ESR Levels
| Group | Normal ESR Range (Westergren method) |
|---|---|
| Men under 50 | Below 15 mm/hr |
| Men over 50 | Below 20 mm/hr |
| Women under 50 | Below 20 mm/hr |
| Women over 50 | Below 30 mm/hr |
| Children | Below 10 mm/hr |
A markedly elevated ESR above 100 mm/hr is called extreme ESR and points to serious conditions such as active TB, multiple myeloma, severe infection, or advanced autoimmune disease. ESR rises in pregnancy and anaemia independently of inflammation — your doctor will interpret it in the full clinical context.
How to Prepare for the ESR Test
- No fasting is required
- Inform your doctor about any steroids, anti-inflammatory medications, or antibiotics you are taking — they can suppress ESR
- Inform the doctor if you are pregnant or have anaemia, as both naturally raise ESR
- Avoid heavy exercise before the test if possible
- A simple blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm
ESR Test Price in Bangladesh
ESR test prices vary between diagnostic centers across Bangladesh. Compare ESR test prices on MedTestBD →
⚠️ This information is for general reference only. Always consult a qualified physician before undergoing any medical test.
