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Updated: Apr 27, 2026

Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate: A Physics-Driven Characterization in a Medical Context
Published on: March 24, 2023
Simultaneous testing of erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein: increased expenditure without
Mundeep Kaur Kainth1, Francis Gigliotti1
1Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY.
We analyzed the practice of paired erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein testing when evaluating fever or inflammation. In our hospital, this resulted in additional charges of $250000-$400000/year without demonstrable added benefit to patient care. Extrapolating our results, we estimate reducing this practice could save up to $300000000 nationally.
We analyzed the practice of paired erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein testing when evaluating fever or inflammation. In our hospital, this resulted in additional charges of $250000-$400000/year without demonstrable added benefit to patient care. Extrapolating our results, we estimate reducing this practice could save up to $300000000 nationally.

