What type of additive is used in an SST (serum separator tube)?

In an SST, or serum separator tube, the correct additive used is T-Gel, which is a type of gel that acts as a separator during centrifugation. The presence of T-Gel facilitates the separation of serum from the clot after the sample has been centrifuged, allowing for clear and distinct layers within the tube. This is particularly valuable in laboratory settings where serum analysis is performed, as it ensures that the serum portion can be easily accessed and analyzed without contamination from cellular components.

Silica is also included as an additive in some SSTs, promoting clot formation. The combination of these two additives allows for efficient processing of blood samples and helps in improving the reliability of the tests performed on the serum, which is critical for accurate diagnoses.

Other types of additives, such as heparin, EDTA, and sodium citrate, are used in different tube types for specific tests and applications, but they are not suitable for serum collection. Understanding the role of each type of additive is essential for proper sample collection and accurate laboratory results.