What type of specimen is commonly used for the Iron Panel test?

The Iron Panel test is typically performed on serum specimens to assess the levels of iron and related proteins in the blood, such as ferritin and transferrin. The preferred collection method for this test is to use a serum separator tube (SST).

SST tubes contain a gel that separates serum from blood cells after centrifugation, which makes it ideal for tests that require serum. The presence of the gel allows for easy separation, providing a clear serum sample that can be analyzed for iron levels without contamination from cellular components.

Using other types of tubes would not be suitable for this particular test. For instance, an EDTA tube, which is an anticoagulant tube, would contain whole blood and not allow for the measurement of serum iron levels. Similarly, a green tube (typically containing heparin) is also an anticoagulant tube that does not separate serum, and while it is used for certain tests, it is not the standard for the Iron Panel.

Thus, the SST tube is the correct choice due to its ability to provide a clean, serum sample necessary for accurate testing of iron levels and related components.