Biomarker Encyclopedia · inflammation · Sutton Coldfield

Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR)

Also known as: ESR, Sed rate

The erythrocyte sedimentation rate measures how quickly red blood cells settle in a sample of blood, which can change with inflammation. At The Vesey Private Hospital in Sutton Coldfield, Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate is available within 3 private blood test panels, with clinician-reviewed results. This page is educational and does not replace personalised medical advice.

What Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate measures

The erythrocyte sedimentation rate measures how quickly red blood cells settle in a sample of blood, which can change with inflammation. It is a long-established, non-specific inflammation marker.

Why it is tested

ESR is measured when assessing inflammation, often alongside CRP. It appears in rheumatology-related and broader panels.

Tests that include Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate at The Vesey

Guide prices are read from the current Vesey catalogue and confirmed at booking.

Inflammation

Guide price from £157

Rheumatology

Guide price from £158

Rheumatology Extended

Guide price from £218

Related biomarkers

Other markers in the inflammation group:

Frequently asked questions

Is ESR the same as CRP?

Both are markers of inflammation but are measured in different ways and can change over different timescales. They are sometimes reported together.

Reviewed by Dr Greg Spencer · General Practitioner · Last reviewed 2026-07-07

This page is for general education and information only. It is not medical advice, a diagnosis, or a recommendation for any specific test or treatment, and it does not include reference ranges, which are laboratory-dependent and interpreted by a clinician. Guide prices are indicative and confirmed at the time of booking. Always discuss your health and any test results with a qualified clinician. In an emergency call 999; for urgent non-emergency advice call NHS 111.

Private blood testing in Sutton Coldfield

Clinician-reviewed results. No GP referral needed.

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