The most common application of erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) testing is its use in determining the scope and degree of inflammatory activity in the body. Physicians frequently utilize ESR testing in the inpatient, outpatient, and ED settings as part of infection workup and other workups for autoimmune disorders, neurology disorders, and ophthalmology issues.
As with many manual procedures, ESR determinations using the modified Westergren method of collecting venous blood and measuring the plasma with a level plate after one hour is cumbersome, time consuming, and overly work intensive. Introducing automated ESR technology into the lab can greatly benefit testing accuracy and reliability of the testing process, as well as the associated TAT. Given its value to the one part of an overall testing procedure for various disease states, it is important to adopt a device that is easy to use and maintain, but also is cost efficient.
Ultimately, automated ESR helps improve diagnostic capabilities in a shorter amount of time over manual processes, two very important achievements in the clinical lab.
The iSED from ALCOR Scientific is a fully automated ESR analyzer capable of analyzing samples in just 20 seconds after automatic mixing, using just 100 µL of blood sampled directly from a primary EDTA collection tube. Equipped with an internal bar code reader and printer, the 20-position iSED has a continuous, random access feed that can accommodate single or multiple samples in the order they are received.
The BD Microtainer MAP Microtube is also compatible with the iSED without requiring any additional sample manipulation, making it ideal for pediatric testing and avoiding QNS issues. The iSED helps improve process flow and virtually eliminates pre-analytical errors commonly caused by temperature, vibration, gravity, and human error. No batching, pipetting, sample splitting, special cuvettes, or duplicate primary tubes are necessary. The analyzer interfaces with any LIS, measures 14.3 x 10.5 x 13.4 inches, and is manufactured in the United States.
ALCOR Scientific
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The Diesse MINI-CUBE, distributed by Streck, is an automated instrument for ESR testing directly from EDTA tubes without consuming the patient sample. The MINI-CUBE provides greater than 95% correlation to the modified Westergren method and is compatible with standard 13 x 75 mm K2EDTA tubes (2 mL to 4 mL) or BD Microtainer K2EDTA tubes (500 µL). No reagents are required and there is no operator exposure to patient samples. The device offers random access and results in 20 minutes, utilizes bar code scanning and a Bluetooth printer, and runs automated QC and archives patient data (LIS compatible). The QC feature eliminates the need to manually record daily runs, and statistical reports are generated with the following features: Levey Jennings charts, standard deviation, CV%, mean, and highest and lowest result.
Streck, Inc
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The Starrsed ST from Mechatronics USA is an automated, tabletop ESR analyzer that performs testing in complete accordance to the reference Westergren method for consistent and accurate results. The Starrsed ST has a built-in bar code reader that identifies each sample and aspirates directly from the EDTA tube into one of the 24 self cleaning Westergren pipettes. The test is completed in 30 or 60 minutes depending on user preference, and results are printed, stored on the instrument, and sent through the LIS. Simultaneously, the used pipettes are automatically cleaned and prepared for the next batch of samples (eliminating the need for disposable pipettes), or to transfer blood in the laboratory. All waste fluids are collected in a built-in waste container ready for disposal as stipulated by local regulations. With a small footprint of 13 x 20 x 30.3 inches, the device is ideal for automating ESR tests in small to medium sized labs while retaining the Westergren methodology.
RR Mechatronics, LLC
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The Starrsed Interrliner from Mechatronics USA is a fully automated ESR system that can be independently placed or attached to an automation line. The Starrsed series operates in complete accordance to the international reference Westergren Method for consistent and accurate results. The Interrliner has a built-in bar code reader that identifies which samples have to be aspirated. From there the Interrliner communicates with the LIS and begins the sampling process. Once the sample is aspirated, results are processed in 30 or 60 minutes, depending on user preference. With a throughput of 140 samples per hour, while retaining the reference method, this device is a proven instrument for high-volume labs that seek accurate results and total automation.
RR Mechatronics, LLC
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The Excyte Mini Automated ESR Analyzer from ELITechGroup performs a complete sedimentation rate test in as little as 15 minutes. The device is compact with a footprint of 6 x 8 x 4 inches (H x W x D) and weighs just 2 pounds. The Excyte Mini holds up to 10 samples, providing the capability to perform up to 40 sed rate tests per hour. The optional bar code scanner allows for quick scanning of patient identification, thereby saving valuable time and ensuring positive ID during testing. The Excyte Mini also has printing capabilities to automatically print patient results, eliminating transcription errors. The device’s methodology is based on the Westergren method, meeting established CLSI and ICSH guidelines.
ELITechGroup
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The Sedi-Rate from Globe Scientific offers a simple, safe, economical, and highly accurate method for performing Westergren-based erythrocyte sedimentation rate determinations. The Sedi-Rate (along with other Globe Scientific ESR products) is completely closed, thereby providing a high degree of safety. The device helps eliminate splashing, spraying, and aerosol hazards, rendering it an optimal choice for ESR testing in the laboratory. The polystyrene (PS) Sedi-Rate pipette is graduated from zero to 180 mm and features a unique fibrous plug located at the zero mark specifically designed to be a self-sealing aerosol barrier that prevents hazardous substances from escaping through the top of the pipette. The polypropylene Sedi-Rate vial features a self-sealing stopper that is easily pierced with a transfer pipette or piercing funnel. The vial is supplied pre-filled with 0.25 mL of 3.8% trisodium citrate diluent. Simply add 1 mL of EDTA-treated blood to complete the 1-to-4 ratio as required by the Westergren method.
Globe Scientific
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The Excyte 20 Automated ESR Analyzer from ELITechGroup delivers results in as little as 15 minutes with a high capacity. The device holds up to 20 samples, providing the capability to perform up to 80 sed rates per hour. The Excyte 20 features onboard mixing, scanning, and printing, while maintaining a small footprint of 7.875 x 13 x 12.25 inches (H x W x D) and weighing just 11 pounds. The analyzer stores data on up to 500 patient samples and 30 days of QC for quick retrieval. Youden Plot graphs allow for quick analysis of daily QC, and on-board mixing provides a more consistent mix, which increases results reliability. The built-in bar code scanner quickly scans and stores patient identification, saving valuable time. The Excyte 20’s methodology is based on the Westergren method, meeting established CLSI and ICSH guidelines.
ELITechGroup
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