How reports print it
РОЭСкорость оседания эритроцитовErythrocyte sedimentation rateСОЭ по ВестергренуСОЭ по Панченкову
What it shows
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate: how fast blood cells settle in a tube within an hour. A non-specific sign of inflammation.
Units and conversion
Base unit: mm/h.
Printed in one unit.
Typical ranges
Your laboratory’s range comes first — it is printed on the report next to the result. Below is one laboratory’s adult range with its method: a reference, not a rule.
| Who | Range, mm/h |
|---|---|
| Men, 18–50 years | < 15 |
| Men, 51 years and older | < 20 |
| Women, 18–50 years | < 20 |
| Women, 51 years and older | < 30 |
Range source: Лаборатория Хеликс — Скорость оседания эритроцитов (СОЭ)
Good to know
The result depends on the method: at high values the Westergren method usually reads higher than the Panchenkov method. Compare results of one method.
Why it can be higher
Common reasons discussed with a doctor. This is not a diagnosis.
- Infection and inflammation
- Pregnancy
- Age: ESR rises over the years
- Low haemoglobin
- Autoimmune processes
Why it can be lower
- Features of red cells and plasma proteins; a low ESR by itself usually means nothing
What to ask a doctor
- Is it worth checking CRP?
- Which method was used — Westergren or Panchenkov?
Whom to see
A GP or internist.