[Appropriate use of laboratory tests – erythrocyte sedimentation rate test]
Gonthier K, Neveu B, Robitaille H
Record ID 32018015622
French
Original Title:
Utilisation judicieuse des analyses biomédicales ‒ Test de la vitesse de sédimentation érythrocytaire
Authors' objectives:
The erythrocyte sedimentation rate test raises several issues concerning its low
specificity and limited precision. Nevertheless, it can be useful in certain clinical
situations. In Québec, a decreasing trend in the use of the erythrocyte sedimentation rate
test has been observed over the past ten years. The objective of this work is to develop a
guidance sheet to support appropriate use, in order to reduce the volume of procedures
with low added value within Québec’s healthcare system.
Authors' results and conclusions:
RESULTS: The erythrocyte sedimentation rate test is not indicated:
• For screening for inflammation in asymptomatic persons;
• For general disease screening (e.g. for infection or myeloma), When C-reactive protein (CRP) levels are elevated. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate test may be indicated to support or confirm a
diagnosis, or for follow‑up of:
• Chronic inflammatory rheumatic diseases such as polymyalgia rheumatica,
rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, early arthritis, or acute rheumatic fever;
• Vasculitis such as giant cell arteritis or Takayasu arteritis. CONCLUSION: The guidance sheet that was developed aims to engage, guide, and support healthcare
professionals in promoting the appropriate use of serum protein electrophoresis tests. It
may thus contribute to reduce the annual number of test requests and associated costs
and workload, while also generating a positive environmental impact.
Authors' methods:
A review of the literature on the indications and recommendations related to erythrocyte
sedimentation rate test was conducted using INESSS’s rapid review methodology.
Healthcare professionals provided experiential and contextual knowledge specific to
Québec.
Details
Project Status:
Completed
Year Published:
2026
URL for published report:
https://www.inesss.qc.ca/fileadmin/doc/INESSS/Rapports/Biologie_medicale/AnBio_Vitesse_sedimentation_GN_INESSS.pdf
English language abstract:
An English language summary is available
Publication Type:
Other
Country:
Canada
Province:
Quebec
MeSH Terms
- Blood Sedimentation
- Hematologic Tests
- Inflammation
- Low-Value Care
Contact
Organisation Name:
Institut national d'excellence en sante et en services sociaux
Contact Address:
L'Institut national d'excellence en sante et en services sociaux (INESSS) , 2021, avenue Union, bureau 10.083, Montreal, Quebec, Canada, H3A 2S9;Tel: 1+514-873-2563, Fax: 1+514-873-1369
Contact Name:
demande@inesss.qc.ca
Contact Email:
demande@inesss.qc.ca
Copyright:
L'Institut national d'excellence en sante et en services sociaux (INESSS)
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