The specific container utilized for Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) blood collection is typically a vacuum tube containing an anticoagulant, most often ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). This specialized tube ensures that the blood does not clot, allowing for accurate measurement of the rate at which red blood cells settle within a specific timeframe. For example, a phlebotomist will use a tube with a lavender or purple top, indicating the presence of EDTA, when drawing blood specifically for ESR determination.
Employing the correct blood collection container is crucial for obtaining reliable ESR results. The presence of EDTA prevents coagulation, which would interfere with the settling process. Accurate ESR measurements are vital for assisting in the diagnosis and monitoring of inflammatory conditions, infections, and certain cancers. Historically, the ESR has been a simple, readily available test that, while non-specific, provides valuable information regarding systemic inflammation.