When is a yellow top tube used, and which tests does it support?
A yellow top tube is commonly used for blood collection when tests requiring plasma for various clinical chemistry and serology assays are ordered. The yellow top tube typically contains the anticoagulant acid citrate dextrose (ACD), which helps prevent blood clotting by chelating calcium ions. This type of tube is suitable for tests that require plasma rather than serum and is often used in blood bank and certain molecular diagnostic applications.
Yellow Top Tube:
Color: Yellow.
Additive: Acid citrate dextrose (ACD) or sometimes other anticoagulants.
Purpose: Prevents blood clotting by chelating calcium ions.
Tests Supported by a Yellow Top Tube:
Blood Bank and Transfusion Studies:
Yellow top tubes are commonly used for blood bank testing, including blood typing, crossmatching, and other compatibility studies.
HLA Typing (Human Leukocyte Antigen):
Used in tissue typing for organ transplantation and certain immunogenetic studies.
Molecular Diagnostic Testing:
In some molecular diagnostic applications, such as certain PCR (polymerase chain reaction) assays, yellow top tubes may be used to collect whole blood for DNA extraction.
Platelet Aggregation Studies:
In some instances, yellow top tubes may be used for platelet aggregation studies, particularly when studying platelet function.
Genetic Studies:
For certain genetic tests and studies, yellow top tubes may be used to collect whole blood for DNA analysis.
HLA Antibody Screening:
Yellow top tubes may be used for screening for antibodies against human leukocyte antigens (HLA) in specific immunological studies.
Virology Studies:
In some virology studies, yellow top tubes may be used for the collection of plasma for the detection of viral infections.
Important Considerations:
Inversion of the Tube: After blood collection in a yellow top tube, it's essential to invert the tube gently several times to ensure proper mixing of the anticoagulant with the blood.
Timely Processing:
Some tests may require timely processing of the blood specimen to obtain accurate results. Follow specific laboratory protocols regarding the processing time for each test.
Proper Tube Filling:
Ensure that the yellow top tube is adequately filled to maintain the proper blood-to-anticoagulant ratio.
Always follow the guidelines provided by the laboratory or healthcare provider for proper blood collection procedures using yellow top tubes, and consult with healthcare professionals or laboratory staff for any specific considerations related to the tests being performed.
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