Distinguishing Light Green and Dark Green Tubes in Medical Labs

Summary

• Light green and dark green tubes are commonly used in medical labs and phlebotomy in the United States.
• The main difference between the two tubes is the type of Anticoagulant they contain.
• Light green tubes typically contain lithium Heparin, while dark green tubes contain sodium Heparin.

Main Differences Between Light Green and Dark Green Tubes

Light green and dark green tubes are essential tools in the field of laboratory medicine and phlebotomy. While they may look similar at first glance, there are key differences between these two types of tubes that make them suitable for specific tests and procedures.

Anticoagulant

One of the primary differences between light green and dark green tubes is the type of Anticoagulant they contain. Anticoagulants are substances that prevent blood from clotting by inhibiting the activity of clotting factors. In the case of these tubes, the Anticoagulant used helps to preserve the integrity of blood samples for testing purposes.

Light Green Tubes

1. Light green tubes typically contain lithium Heparin as the anticoagulant.
2. Lithium Heparin works by binding to and activating antithrombin III, a natural inhibitor of clotting factors.
3. This prevents the blood from clotting and allows for the accurate measurement of analytes in the sample.
4. Light green tubes are commonly used for tests that require plasma, such as chemistry panels, electrolyte tests, and hormone assays.

Dark Green Tubes

1. Dark green tubes contain sodium Heparin as the anticoagulant.
2. Sodium Heparin works in a similar way to lithium Heparin, by inhibiting the activity of clotting factors.
3. These tubes are commonly used for tests that require whole blood, such as blood gas analysis and some Therapeutic Drug Monitoring tests.
4. The presence of sodium Heparin in dark green tubes can cause interference in some assays, so they are not ideal for all types of testing.

Conclusion

Light green and dark green tubes play a crucial role in the collection and preservation of blood samples for laboratory testing. Understanding the differences between these two types of tubes is essential for ensuring accurate and reliable Test Results. By choosing the appropriate tube for each type of test, healthcare professionals can help to maintain the quality and integrity of the samples, ultimately leading to better patient care and outcomes.

Disclaimer: The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only, reflecting the personal opinions and insights of the author(s) on the topics. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed physician. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. No physician-patient relationship is created by this web site or its use. No contributors to this web site make any representations, express or implied, with respect to the information provided herein or to its use. While we strive to share accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the completeness, reliability, or accuracy of the content. The blog may also include links to external websites and resources for the convenience of our readers. Please note that linking to other sites does not imply endorsement of their content, practices, or services by us. Readers should use their discretion and judgment while exploring any external links and resources mentioned on this blog.

Related Videos