Common Blood Tests Using Yellow Top Tube in the United States: Complete Blood Count, Basic Metabolic Panel, Lipid Panel, and Liver Function Tests
Summary
- Whole blood samples collected in a yellow top tube are commonly used for routine medical lab tests in the United States.
- Tests performed on these samples can help Healthcare Providers assess a patient's overall health, diagnose conditions, and monitor treatments.
- Common tests include complete blood count, basic metabolic panel, lipid panel, and liver function tests.
Introduction
When you visit a healthcare provider for a routine check-up or to investigate specific symptoms, you may be asked to have blood drawn for laboratory testing. Blood tests are an essential tool in diagnosing and monitoring a wide range of health conditions. One common type of blood collection tube used for these tests is the yellow top tube. In this article, we will explore the tests typically performed on whole blood samples collected in a yellow top tube during a routine medical lab test in the United States.
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
A complete blood count (CBC) is a common test performed on whole blood samples collected in a yellow top tube. This test provides important information about the different types of cells in your blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. A CBC can help Healthcare Providers diagnose a variety of conditions, such as anemia, infections, and blood disorders. Some of the components of a CBC include:
- Red blood cell count (RBC)
- White blood cell count (WBC)
- Hemoglobin
- Hematocrit
- Platelet count
Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP)
A basic metabolic panel (BMP) is another common test performed on whole blood samples collected in a yellow top tube. This test measures different chemicals in your blood that are important for maintaining overall health. A BMP can help Healthcare Providers assess kidney function, electrolyte levels, and blood sugar levels. Some of the components of a BMP include:
- Glucose
- Blood urea nitrogen (BUN)
- Creatinine
- Sodium
- Potassium
- Calcium
Lipid Panel
A lipid panel is a test that measures levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in your blood. This test is performed on whole blood samples collected in a yellow top tube and can help Healthcare Providers assess your risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular conditions. Some of the components of a lipid panel include:
- Total cholesterol
- Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol
- High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol
- Triglycerides
Liver Function Tests
Liver function tests are a series of tests that measure different chemicals and enzymes in your blood that are produced by the liver. These tests can help Healthcare Providers assess how well your liver is functioning and diagnose liver conditions, such as hepatitis and cirrhosis. Liver function tests are typically performed on whole blood samples collected in a yellow top tube. Some of the components of liver function tests include:
- Albumin
- Alanine aminotransferase (ALT)
- Aspartate aminotransferase (AST)
- Alkaline phosphatase
- Total bilirubin
Conclusion
Whole blood samples collected in a yellow top tube are commonly used in routine medical lab tests in the United States. These tests, such as complete blood count, basic metabolic panel, lipid panel, and liver function tests, provide valuable information that can help Healthcare Providers assess your overall health, diagnose conditions, and monitor treatments. It is important to follow your healthcare provider's recommendations for blood tests and to discuss any questions or concerns you may have about the results.
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