What type of specimen is typically required for Serology/Immunology tests such as CRP?

For Serology/Immunology tests, such as measuring C-reactive protein (CRP), a specimen typically required is serum, which is best obtained using a Serum Separator Tube (SST). The SST contains a gel that separates the serum from the cellular components of the blood once it has been centrifuged, thus allowing for a clear sample that can be tested for various immunology markers.

When performing these tests, the requirement for serum is important because serum provides valuable information regarding the immune response, inflammation, and other biochemical markers without the interference that can sometimes come from whole blood or plasma, which contains clotting factors and cells. This clarity and precision in the sample is essential for the accuracy of the results in clinical diagnostics.