Does anybody know about this comment on my blood test results?
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate NA
. Please note new ESR method & reference ranges from 18th November 2019. ESR is not clinically indicated for this patient. Please contact. Laboratory Medicine to discuss further if required.
Ask your GP. In the meantime have ahunt on the net.....................as I will, "new ESR method & reference ranges from 18th November 2019. We will see what comes up. If it does not make sense to us...................then GP should be asked to explain.
Done it, but there are more references and I have no time at present to read through this or the others.
Your local lab, in their infinite wisdom, does not consider ESR is a relevant test for you. The other bit is telling doctors they have a new method which means the "normal range" has changed.
What is your diagnosis?
I was diagnosed with PMR in April and am undergoing a course of steroids, predisolone. I got stuck on 8mg for three months and have just reduced to 7mg. I thought the CRP and ESR counts were effective ways to see if my condition was getting better.
They are and what you have been using - so your GP should be questioning the lab's decision, I know there are some authorities who are trying to get rid of ESR (it isn't brilliant for several reasons) but I do also know that some have said it is still useful in PMR. If the lab does it - and it was asked for for PMR patient they should do it. But I bet they will argue.
Agree with Pro , you need to query it with the GP ask them to do the test because you have PMR , just in case they didn't write your condition correctly on the blood envelope.
Also , the GP needs to add a note on the envelope details section ( not a separate note they won't read that ) saying they need a test of your inflammatory markers.
This happens all to readily , if the lab does not know why the test was taken or guidelines change and you have had a test in the last year , there are many tests that they refuse to do again , because of NICE or Local Trust laboratory funding. That's why NA is written , it was not tested.
If the test was done but you got improper results they usually write that the GP needs to repeat the sample.
I think N/A means not available because they messed up doing the test, probably dropped it under a cupboard. I have it happen every so often and sometimes I have to have the test done again which is infuriating.
Blood test frequency 
Query about ESR please.
Change the time I take Pred?
Change in Typeface - harsh on older eyes!!
Blood test results. Should I worry?
