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Lifestyle
- regular physical activity
- stress management
- adequate sleep
Blutwerte · Marker
BSG
Blutsenkungsgeschwindigkeit · ESR · Erythrozyten-Sedimentationsrate · Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate
Entzündungsmarker
- Einheit:
- mm/hr
- Abbreviation
- BSG / ESR
ESR quantifies the rate at which erythrocytes settle at the bottom of a test tube over one hour, indicating the presence of inflammation.
Reference Ranges
Reference
0–20mm/hr
0
20
LowNormalHigh
Reference
Unit · mm/hrReference ranges can vary by age and sex; women and older adults may have slightly higher values.
Overview
Übersicht
The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), also known as Blutsenkungsgeschwindigkeit (BSG) or Erythrozyten-Sedimentationsrate, is a blood test that measures the rate at which red blood cells sediment in a period of one hour. It is a non-specific marker of inflammation, reflecting the presence of acute phase reactants in the blood, which cause red blood cells to clump together and settle more quickly. Clinically, ESR is used to detect inflammation associated with conditions such as infections, cancers, and autoimmune diseases. It is often used in conjunction with other tests, like C-reactive protein (CRP), to provide a more comprehensive view of inflammatory activity. In the context of athletic performance, biohacking, or longevity, ESR may be monitored to assess systemic inflammation, which can impact recovery, performance, and overall health. However, its non-specific nature means it should be interpreted cautiously and in conjunction with other markers. Several factors can confound ESR results, including age, sex, pregnancy, anemia, and certain medications. Additionally, variations in testing methods, such as the Westergren method or its modifications, can affect results. Therefore, consistent methodology and consideration of individual patient factors are crucial for accurate interpretation.
Klinische Bedeutung
Elevated ESR values typically indicate the presence of inflammation due to conditions like infections, autoimmune diseases, or malignancies. Low ESR values are less common and may not be clinically significant.
Dynamics
Trend Interpretation
Rising Values
Progressively rising ESR values suggest worsening inflammation or disease activity. Re-test in 4-6 weeks if clinically indicated.
Falling Values
Progressively falling ESR values suggest resolution of inflammation or effective treatment.
Re-test Interval
4-6 weeks if outside optimal range
Etiology
Causes — High & Low
Cause
Elevated Levels
- infections
- autoimmune diseases
- cancers
- chronic kidney disease
- pregnancy
Cause
Low Levels
- polycythemia
- sickle cell anemia
- extreme leukocytosis
- congestive heart failure
Protocol
How to Optimize
Lever
Nutrition
- anti-inflammatory diet
- omega-3 fatty acids
- fruits and vegetables
Lever
Supplementation
- omega-3 supplements
- curcumin
- vitamin D
Note:
Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
Testing Guidelines
✓Fasting Not Required
✓Not Time-Sensitive
Testing Frequency
As needed based on clinical indications.
Interfering Factors
- pregnancy
- anemia
- certain medications
Related Markers
Related Peptides & Hormones
C Reactive Protein
hormone or peptideCorrelated with
Open Research Questions
Current research suggests that discrepancies between ESR and CRP measurements, particularly in chronic inflammatory diseases, remain understudied, with no consensus on reference ranges or optimal targets. Researchers have not yet established standardized methodologies for ESR testing, leading to variability in results across different techniques. Additionally, clinical questions regarding the specific conditions under which ESR and CRP discordance occurs and its implications for patient management remain unanswered.
46 Research Publications
1,070
Total Citations
25
Human/RCT
5.3
Avg. Influence
2025
Latest
Sort
Filter
01Top
#01
Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate and C-reactive Protein Measurements and Their Relevance in Clinical Medicine.
Bray Christopher, et al. · WMJ : official publication of the State Medical Society of Wisconsin · 2016
ReviewInfluence16.0
339
This review examined the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) as markers of systemic inflammation. Researchers found that both markers lack sensitivity and specificity, and discrepancies between their measurements are common, particularly in chronic inflammatory diseases. Proper utilization of ESR and CRP continues to play an important role in clinical management.
Key findings
- 01Researchers observed that ESR and CRP are commonly used to assess inflammation but have different sensitivities and specificities.
- 02They found that discrepancies between ESR and CRP results can arise due to various physiological factors.
- 03The study highlighted the importance of using these tests alongside clinical evaluations for accurate diagnosis and monitoring.
02Top
#02
Biomarkers of inflammatory bowel disease.
ReviewInfluence7.0
121
This review focused on biomarkers for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), highlighting the challenges in diagnosis and monitoring. Researchers found that current biomarkers like CRP and ESR are not ideal, and ongoing studies aim to identify better options. The review summarized recent advances in IBD biomarkers.
03Top
#03
From bench to bedside: Calprotectin (S100A8/S100A9) as a biomarker in rheumatoid arthritis.
Inciarte-Mundo José, et al. · Frontiers in immunology · 2022
HumanInfluence6.0
113
This study focused on calprotectin (S100A8/S100A9) as a biomarker in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Researchers found that higher calprotectin levels correlate better with disease activity than CRP or ESR. Additionally, calprotectin levels decreased after treatment, indicating its potential as a biomarker for monitoring RA.
Key findings
- 01Researchers observed higher levels of calprotectin in the blood and joint fluid of RA patients.
- 02They found that calprotectin levels correlate more closely with disease activity than traditional inflammatory markers.
- 03Researchers noted that calprotectin can predict the progression of joint damage in RA.
04
#04
ICSH recommendations for modified and alternate methods measuring the erythrocyte sedimentation rate.
UnknownInfluence14.0
100
This research focused on modified and alternate methods for measuring the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). Researchers found that only 28% of laboratories used the traditional Westergren method, with new methods showing significant differences in results. Recommendations for validating these new methods were developed by a panel of experts.
05
#05
Circulating MicroRNA223 is a New Biomarker for Inflammatory Bowel Disease.
HumanInfluence3.0
67
This study proposed circulating microRNA223 as a new biomarker for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Researchers found that serum miR-223 levels were significantly elevated in IBD patients compared to healthy controls and correlated with disease activity indicators. This suggests miR-223 may be a promising noninvasive monitoring tool.
06
#06
Cyclophilin A/CD147 Interaction: A Promising Target for Anticancer Therapy.
ReviewInfluence1.0
64
This review explored the interaction between cyclophilin A and CD147 in cancer. Researchers observed a significant association between the overexpression of genes encoding these proteins and poor prognosis in various tumors, suggesting their potential as therapeutic targets.
07
#07
The adsorption behavior of U(VI) on granite.
UnknownInfluence3.0
58
This study investigated the adsorption behavior of uranium (U(VI)) on granite, not directly related to blood biomarkers. Researchers found that pH and counter ions significantly affect U(VI) adsorption. The findings contribute to understanding environmental interactions rather than clinical biomarkers.
08
#08
Reducing inappropriate ESR testing with computerized clinical decision support.
HumanInfluence2.0
28
This study aimed to reduce inappropriate ordering of erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) tests in a clinical setting. Researchers found that implementing computerized clinical decision support led to a 40% reduction in ESR orders. The findings suggest that provider habits contribute to overutilization of ESR testing.
09
#09
Effect of age and sex on the erythrocyte sedimentation rate.
Human
22
This study reevaluated normal values for the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) across a wide age range. Researchers found that upper limits of normal ESR values were slightly above standard laboratory values, with an age-related increase noted, particularly in women and men in their 50s.
10
#10
Biomarkers in Rheumatoid Arthritis.
Review
17
This review highlighted the importance of biomarkers in rheumatoid arthritis for diagnosis and management. Researchers noted ongoing investigations into both established and potential new biomarkers to improve clinical outcomes for RA patients.
Publication Trend
Research publications about BSG over time
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