Which blood collection tube is used for serum tests?

The red top tube is specifically designed for serum tests because it allows for the separation of serum from the blood cells after the sample has been collected. This tube contains no additives, meaning it does not affect the blood sample during the clotting process. Once the sample coagulates, the liquid portion, or serum, can be easily separated by centrifugation and is suitable for various diagnostic tests that require serum analysis.

In contrast, the blue top tube contains sodium citrate, which is an anticoagulant used primarily for coagulation studies. The green top tube typically contains heparin, another anticoagulant, and is used for plasma tests rather than serum. The lavender top tube is treated with EDTA, which also acts as an anticoagulant, and is mainly used for hematology tests. Therefore, the red top tube is uniquely suited for obtaining serum, making it the correct choice for serum tests.