Following submissions from specialist areas, and taking into account ESR testing policies at North Island DHBs, we have reviewed our criteria for ESR testing.
The ESR has significant limitations in terms of measurement accuracy. Clinical dependence on its result in isolation is not endorsed by the laboratory.
The ESR should not be used to screen for plasma cell dyscrasias; serum protein electrophoresis and/or serum free light chains are the tests of choice.
The ESR should not be used to screen for inflammatory/infective disorders; CRP is the test of choice.