What is the optimal tube for kidney function tests?

The optimal tube for kidney function tests is typically the serum separator tube (SST), which is often identified by its gold or marble color. The SST is designed to facilitate the collection of serum after centrifugation, which is essential for many laboratory tests, including those assessing kidney function such as creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN). The presence of a gel barrier in the SST allows for the separation of serum from blood cells, ensuring that the samples are stable and reducing the risk of contamination.

Using an SST is advantageous for kidney function tests because it provides a clear serum sample necessary for accurate analysis. This type of tube also minimizes the potential for hemolysis, which can interfere with test results. Other tubes, while they may serve specific purposes, are not ideal for kidney function studies as they either lack the necessary separator or are used for entirely different types of analyses.