What is the primary purpose of using a gold or tiger top tube?

The primary purpose of using a gold or tiger top tube is to collect serum for serology and chemistry tests. These tubes contain a gel separator that allows for the separation of serum from the cellular components of blood after centrifugation. This is particularly important in laboratory testing, as many tests—especially those related to chemistry and serology—require serum rather than whole blood or plasma.

By allowing the blood to clot and then spinning it in a centrifuge, the gel creates a physical barrier between the serum and the cells, making it easier to obtain a clear serum sample for analysis. This is critical because many laboratory tests rely on the biochemical properties of serum rather than the whole blood composition. Consequently, the gold or tiger top tube is commonly used for a variety of routine and specialized tests, including metabolic panels, lipid profiles, and various serological assays, making it versatile and widely utilized in clinical settings.