Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate is drawn in a EDTA (lavender-top) tube at Quest, a Lavender-top (EDTA) tube at LabCorp, and a Lavender top- EDTA at BioReference.
Lab comparison
Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate: Quest vs LabCorp vs BioReference, tube, code & requirements
. This page shows collection requirements for all three major reference labs in one view, so you don’t have to cross-check three portals.
Always verify against your lab’s current collection manual before drawing.
Every value on this page is verified by a nurse practitioner in active clinical practice, not scraped from an automated source.
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| Requirement | Quest Diagnostics | LabCorp | BioReference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Test code | 809 | 0086-9 | |
| Primary tube | EDTA (lavender-top) tube | Lavender-top (EDTA) tube | Lavender top- EDTA |
| Specimen type | Whole blood: Full EDTA (lavender-top) tube | Whole blood | 1 mL Lavender top- EDTA |
| Patient prep | See lab specimen manual | See lab specimen manual | See lab specimen manual |
| Minimum volume | Minimum Volume 2 mL | Minimum Volume 2 mL (Note: This volume does not allow for repeat testing.) | Qty 1 |
Frequently asked questions
What is the Quest Diagnostics order code for Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate?
The Quest Diagnostics order code for Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate is 809.
What tube color does LabCorp use for Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate?
LabCorp uses a Lavender-top (EDTA) tube for Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate.
Does Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate require fasting?
Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate patient prep: See lab specimen manual. Always confirm with the ordering lab before the draw.
Data provenance
Source: Quest Diagnostics specimen collection manual, LabCorp directory of services, and BioReference laboratory collection guide.
Verified by: a licensed nurse practitioner in active clinical practice. Values are reviewed against each lab’s published collection requirements. Always confirm against your lab’s current manual before drawing.
Quest verified by: Mandi Boss B Franklin, Jul 14, 2026
LabCorp verified by: Mandi Boss B Franklin, Jul 14, 2026
BioReference verified by: Mandi Boss B Franklin, Jul 14, 2026
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