Blood tests to detect inflammation

Continue reading belowErythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin (PCT) and plasma viscosity (PV) blood tests are commonly used to detect increase in protein in the blood. In this way they are used as markers of inflammation.Note: the information below is a general guide only. The arrangements, and the way tests are performed, may vary between different hospitals. Always follow the instructions given by your doctor or local hospital.Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) blood testA blood sample is taken and put in a tube that contains a chemical to stop blood clots forming. The tube is left to stand upright. The red blood cells (erythrocytes) gradually fall to the bottom of the tube (as a sediment). The clear liquid plasma is left at the top.The ESR measures the rate at which the red blood cells separate from the plasma and fall to the bottom of a test tube. The rate is measured in millimetres per hour (mm/hr). This is easy to measure as there will be a...