What lab finding may indicate active inflammation in a patient?

A high erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is indicative of active inflammation in the body. When inflammation occurs, various proteins, such as fibrinogen, increase in the bloodstream. These proteins cause red blood cells to clump together and settle more quickly when a blood sample is taken, resulting in a higher ESR. Monitoring ESR can help clinicians assess the presence and activity level of inflammatory processes, making it a valuable tool in diagnosing conditions such as autoimmune diseases, infections, and other inflammatory disorders. In contrast, low ESR would suggest a lack of inflammation, while normal blood chemistry does not provide specific information about inflammatory activity. High hemoglobin levels typically indicate a different physiological response, often related to conditions such as polycythemia rather than inflammation.