The feasibility of estimating the erythrocyte sedimentation rate within a few minutes by using a simple slide test

Abstract

The acute phase response is accompanied by the appearance of aggregated red blood cells in the peripheral blood. The Westergren erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is an indirect measurement of this enhanced aggregability. We adopted a simple slide test and image analysis to reveal the adhesiveness/aggregation of red blood cells. A significant correlation was found between the erythrocyte adhesiveness/aggregation test (EAAT) and the ESR. A predictive model for ESR based on EAAT and the age of the patients was created. This new approach will enable us to obtain within a few minutes a good estimate of whether a given individual has a mild moderate or significant acute phase response. With further development, we will be able to use a bedside small cartridge that will deliver the extrapolated ESR at low costs and within a couple of minutes.