Wintrobe & Westergren Tube

The Wintrobe tube is 110 mm long with a uniform bore diameter of 3 mm. It is calibrated from 0 to 100 mm in both ascending and descending order. Westergren tube, on the other hand, is 300 mm long with a bore diameter of 2.5 mm. It is calibrated as 0 -200 mm from above to downward. Used in hematology for determining the sedimentation rate of red blood cells. This test is commonly known as the Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR)

• Important Facts and Uses:
  
  • Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) Measurement:

  The Wintrobe tube is primarily used for measuring the rate at which red blood cells settle in a vertical column of anticoagulated blood over a specific period.

  • PCV or Hematocrit:

  A Wintrobe tube also used for PCV determination (Only Wintrobe tube)

• Caring for a Wintrobe Tube:
  
  • Handling:

  Handle the tube with care to prevent breakage. It is made of glass, which can be fragile.

  • Cleaning:

  Clean the tube thoroughly after each use to prevent contamination and ensure accurate test results.