Which blood tests are typically conducted using a red or marble top tube?

The blood tests typically conducted using a red or marble top tube include tests for HIV and RPR (Rapid Plasma Reagin). These tubes are designed to allow the blood to clot, and they do not contain any additives that would interfere with serological tests, making them suitable for assays that require serum.

HIV testing can involve serology, where antibodies against the virus are detected, and RPR is a non-treponemal test used for screening syphilis, which also requires serum for accurate results. The ability of the marble top tube to facilitate a separation of serum after clotting makes it a preferred choice for these types of tests, as it helps ensure the sample remains uncontaminated and yields reliable results.

In contrast, other test combinations mentioned are associated with different types of tubes or additives suited for their specific requirements, such as those requiring anticoagulants or other specific conditions for proper testing.