Question

What is erythrocyte sedimentation rate?

Answer 1

Erythrocytes:

1. Erythrocytes are red blood cells (RBCs).
2. These cells contain a protein molecule called hemoglobin that has a high affinity for oxygen molecules.
3. These are formed in the bone marrow and appear red due to the presence of the heme groups in hemoglobin.

Erythrocyte sedimentation rate:

1. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is a blood test that determines the rate at which the RBCs settle at the bottom of the test tube.
2. The ESR can diagnose inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease in the body.
3. A high ESR rate can also signify cancer and cardiovascular disorders.