Gold Top Tube vs Red Top Tube: Understanding the Key Differences

Summary

• Gold Top tubes are commonly used for collecting serum samples, while Red Top tubes are typically used for collecting blood samples for various laboratory tests.
• Tests performed using a Gold Top tube include chemistry panels, hormone assays, and immunoassays, while tests performed using a Red Top tube include Blood Glucose levels, blood typing, and serum iron levels.
• The choice between using a Gold Top tube or a Red Top tube depends on the specific test being performed and the requirements of the laboratory or healthcare provider.

Introduction

In the medical laboratory setting in the United States, different types of blood collection tubes are used to collect samples for various tests. Two commonly used tubes are the Gold Top tube and the Red Top tube. These tubes play a crucial role in ensuring accurate Test Results and proper diagnosis for patients. In this article, we will explore the specific tests that are typically performed using a Gold Top tube compared to a Red Top tube.

Gold Top Tube

The Gold Top tube, also known as a serum separator tube, is often used for collecting blood samples for tests that require serum. Serum is the yellowish fluid that remains after blood has clotted and the clot has been removed. The gold or tiger top tube contains a gel that forms a barrier between the serum and the clot when the blood is centrifuged, allowing for easy separation of the serum for testing.

Tests Performed Using a Gold Top Tube

1. Chemistry Panels: Comprehensive metabolic panels (CMP), basic metabolic panels (BMP), liver function tests (LFTs), and renal function tests are commonly performed using serum samples collected in Gold Top tubes.
2. Hormone Assays: Tests to measure hormone levels such as thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), estradiol, testosterone, and cortisol are often performed using serum samples collected in Gold Top tubes.
3. Immunoassays: Tests to detect antibodies, antigens, proteins, and other substances in the blood, such as human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) for pregnancy testing, are typically performed using serum samples collected in Gold Top tubes.

Red Top Tube

The Red Top tube is commonly used for collecting blood samples that do not require separation of serum. These tubes do not contain any additives or gels that separate the blood components, making them suitable for tests that do not require serum testing.

Tests Performed Using a Red Top Tube

1. Blood Glucose Levels: Tests to measure Blood Glucose levels, such as Fasting blood sugar and glucose tolerance tests, are usually performed using blood samples collected in Red Top tubes.
2. Blood Typing: Tests to determine blood type and compatibility for transfusions are typically performed using whole blood samples collected in Red Top tubes.
3. Serum Iron Levels: Tests to measure serum iron levels, such as iron studies and ferritin levels, are often performed using blood samples collected in Red Top tubes.

Conclusion

In the United States, Gold Top tubes and Red Top tubes are essential tools in the medical laboratory setting for collecting blood samples for a variety of tests. The choice between using a Gold Top tube or a Red Top tube depends on the specific test being performed and the requirements of the laboratory or healthcare provider. Understanding the differences between these tubes and the tests they are used for is crucial in ensuring accurate Test Results and proper diagnosis for patients.

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