The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is a blood test that measures the rate at which red blood cells (RBCs) fall to the bottom of a test tube over the course of an hour. An ESR test is a nonspecific marker of inflammation and is commonly used to detect and monitor various conditions, including infections, autoimmune diseases, and cancers. Elevated ESR levels are common in cancer patients and may affect survival. High ESR levels indicate the presence of inflammation or tissue damage in the body, and in cancer patients, high ESR levels reveal the presence of a growth-related inflammation. However, a high ESR alone is not a conclusive indication of cancer, and additional tests, like imaging scans and biopsies, are needed for a complete assessment.

ESR plays a vital role in cancer diagnosis and monitoring. For diagnosis, an elevated ESR may prompt further investigations to identify the underlying cause. In cancer patients, ESR levels can be monitored over time to assess treatment response, disease progression, or recurrence. A declining ESR level may indicate positive treatment outcomes, while a rising trend might warrant further evaluation.

Several studies have examined the relationship between ESR levels and cancer risk. For example, a study found that the incidence of cancer increased with rising ESR levels, with a dose-response relationship. Another study found that the mean survival time is longer in lung cancer patients with an ESR of ≤24 mm/h. However, a study found that elevated ESR has limited value as an indicator of malignancy in hospitalized patients and out-patients.

In summary, ESR levels can be elevated in cancer patients due to growth-related inflammation. ESR plays a vital role in cancer diagnosis and monitoring, but a high ESR alone is not a conclusive indication of cancer. Additional tests are needed for a complete assessment.