The colour of the blood assortment tube used for erythrocyte sedimentation charge (ESR) testing is crucial for correct outcomes. Particularly, lavender-topped tubes containing ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) are the usual for ESR evaluation. Different tube varieties, containing totally different components, could intrude with the sedimentation course of and yield deceptive outcomes.
Standardizing the gathering course of utilizing the right tube ensures dependable and comparable ESR values throughout totally different laboratories and over time. This consistency is essential for each diagnostic and monitoring functions, as ESR is a non-specific marker of irritation and can be utilized to trace illness exercise or remedy response. Traditionally, totally different anticoagulants and tube varieties have been explored for ESR measurement. Nonetheless, EDTA in lavender-topped tubes emerged as the popular alternative on account of its optimum anticoagulant properties and minimal interference with pink blood cell aggregation, the basic course of behind the ESR take a look at.