What color of tube is used for serum tests that may also be referred to as 'Gold'?”

The tube color typically referred to as 'Gold' is speckled red/gray. This type of tube is designed to collect serum samples and contains a separator gel that facilitates the separation of serum from the blood cells after centrifugation. This feature is particularly important for serum tests, as it helps to ensure that the serum is free from cellular components, which could interfere with test results.

Serum tests are commonly conducted for a variety of biochemical analyses, including hormone levels, enzymes, and electrolytes. The speckled red/gray tube is advantageous because it allows for immediate processing without the need for additional manual handling, improving efficiency in a laboratory setting.

Other tube colors mentioned, such as red, green, and gray, have different functionalities. For instance, the red tube typically lacks additives and is used for serum collection without the separator gel. The green tube contains heparin as an anticoagulant, appropriate for testing plasma rather than serum. A gray tube usually contains additives to inhibit glycolysis and is primarily used for glucose level testing. Therefore, the specific design and function of the speckled red/gray tube make it uniquely suitable for serum tests often referred to as 'Gold.'