Re: C-Reactive Protein versus Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate: Implications Among Patients with No Known Inflammatory Conditions

To the Editor: Alende-Castro et al present an interesting observation of the disparity in elevation of C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) in people without inflammatory disorders.¹ A similar disparity was noted in patients with inflammatory disorders.² The study was geared toward determining if continued availability of ESR was warranted in the laboratory menu. Patients with elevated ESR and not elevated CRP mainly consisted of patients with inflammation of the bones and skin. While skin inflammation is usually visible, ESR was instrumental in diagnosing and monitoring patients with bone inflammation. Despite being an ancient laboratory test without a known molecular basis, it was determined that continued availability of ESR in the laboratory menu is warranted.