What is a common test performed with a lavender top tube?

The lavender top tube is commonly used for a Complete Blood Count (CBC) because it contains EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid), an anticoagulant that prevents blood from clotting. This property is essential for a CBC, which measures various components of blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. The results of a CBC provide valuable information about a person’s overall health and help in diagnosing conditions such as anemia, infection, and many other disorders.

In contrast, the other tests mentioned generally have different requirements for blood collection or utilize different types of tubes. For example, blood glucose tests typically use a tube with a grey top containing sodium fluoride, while a coagulation profile usually requires a tube with a blue top that contains sodium citrate. An electrolytes panel is often performed using a serum separator tube, typically with a red or gold top. Thus, the specific properties of the lavender top tube make it uniquely suited for performing a Complete Blood Count.