Know More About This Test

CBC with ESR combines a Complete Blood Count with Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate testing. CBC evaluates blood cells, while ESR measures inflammation in the body. Together, they provide a broad picture of infection, anemia, immune status, and inflammatory conditions.

This test is widely used in routine health assessments and disease monitoring.

Why Is This Test Recommended?

• It is recommended for patients with fever, fatigue, unexplained weight loss, infections, autoimmune diseases, or chronic inflammatory conditions.

What Do the Results Indicate?

• Abnormal CBC values indicate anemia, infection, or blood disorders.

• Elevated ESR suggests inflammation or chronic disease but is not disease-specific.

How Is the Test Performed and Prepared For?

A blood sample is collected. Fasting is not required. Hydration should be adequate before testing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Is ESR disease-specific? No, ESR is not disease-specific, as it is a non-specific marker of inflammation that can rise in various conditions like infections, autoimmune disorders, or even pregnancy, requiring additional tests for accurate diagnosis.

• Can ESR rise in infections? Yes, ESR often rises in infections due to increased inflammatory proteins in the blood that cause red blood cells to settle faster, making it a useful initial indicator but not a standalone diagnostic tool.

• Is CBC a routine test? Yes, CBC is a routine test commonly included in annual health checkups, pre-operative evaluations, and monitoring for chronic conditions, as it provides a quick overview of overall blood health and detects early abnormalities.

• Can medications affect ESR? Yes, certain medications like corticosteroids, aspirin, or quinine can lower ESR levels by reducing inflammation, while others like oral contraceptives may elevate it, so it's important to inform your doctor about all current treatments before testing.

• Is follow-up testing required? Often, yes—follow-up testing is frequently required if initial CBC with ESR results show abnormalities, to confirm findings, track changes over time, or guide further investigations like imaging or specialized blood work.