erythrocyte sedimentation rate

Definition / meaning of erythrocyte sedimentation rate

The distance red blood cells travel in one hour in a sample of blood as they settle to the bottom of a test tube. The sedimentation rate is increased in inflammation, infection, cancer, rheumatic diseases, and diseases of the blood and bone marrow. Also called ESR and sedimentation rate.

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Source(s):

The Web site of the National Cancer Institute (http://www.cancer.gov/)

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