Understanding the Common Types of Tests Using Serum Separator Tubes in Medical Labs
Summary
- Serum separator tubes (SST) are commonly used in medical labs and during phlebotomy procedures in the United States.
- Various tests can be performed using SST, including basic metabolic panels, lipid panels, and liver function tests.
- Understanding the different types of tests that can be run using SST can help healthcare professionals provide accurate and efficient patient care.
Introduction
Serum separator tubes (SST) are a crucial component in the healthcare industry, especially in medical labs and during phlebotomy procedures. These tubes are specifically designed to separate blood into serum and clot, allowing for easier testing and analysis of various Biomarkers and components. In this article, we will explore the common types of tests that can be performed using SST in a medical lab or during phlebotomy in the United States.
Basic Metabolic Panel
A basic metabolic panel is a common test that can be performed using a serum separator tube. This test measures various components in the blood, including:
- Glucose levels
- Electrolyte levels (sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate)
- Blood urea nitrogen (BUN)
- Creatinine
A basic metabolic panel is often ordered as part of a routine physical exam or to monitor certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or kidney disease.
Lipid Panel
A lipid panel is another common test that can be performed using a serum separator tube. This test measures various lipid levels in the blood, including:
- Total cholesterol
- Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol
- High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol
- Triglycerides
A lipid panel is often ordered to assess a patient's risk for cardiovascular disease and to monitor the effectiveness of cholesterol-lowering medications.
Liver Function Tests
Liver function tests can also be performed using a serum separator tube. These tests measure various enzymes and proteins in the blood that are produced by the liver, including:
- Alanine aminotransferase (ALT)
- Aspartate aminotransferase (AST)
- Alkaline phosphatase
- Total protein
- Bilirubin
Liver function tests are often ordered to assess liver function and to diagnose conditions such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or liver cancer.
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
A complete blood count (CBC) is a comprehensive test that can be performed using a serum separator tube. This test measures various components in the blood, including:
- White blood cell count
- Red blood cell count
- Hemoglobin
- Hematocrit
- Platelet count
A CBC is often ordered to assess overall health and to diagnose a variety of conditions, including anemia, infection, and leukemia.
Thyroid Function Tests
Thyroid function tests can also be performed using a serum separator tube. These tests measure various hormones produced by the thyroid gland, including:
- Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)
- Free thyroxine (T4)
- Triiodothyronine (T3)
Thyroid function tests are often ordered to assess thyroid function and to diagnose conditions such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
Conclusion
Overall, serum separator tubes (SST) play a critical role in the healthcare industry, allowing for the accurate and efficient testing of various Biomarkers and components in the blood. By understanding the common types of tests that can be performed using SST in a medical lab or during phlebotomy, healthcare professionals can provide better patient care and make informed treatment decisions.
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