For which laboratory test is an SST tube typically utilized?

An SST (Serum Separator Tube) is typically utilized for liver function tests because this type of tube is designed to collect blood specimens for serum testing. The gel separator in the SST allows for the separation of serum from the blood cells upon centrifugation, which is necessary for accurate analysis of liver function markers such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and bilirubin levels. These tests require serum rather than whole blood or plasma, making the SST the appropriate choice in this scenario.

In contrast, other tests listed may not require the use of an SST. For instance, a Complete Blood Count typically uses an EDTA tube, Type and Cross Match often requires a specific anticoagulant tube (such as a plain red top tube), and Urinalysis is performed using urine samples rather than blood. Therefore, the SST's design and purpose align specifically with the requirements of liver function tests.