Plasma samples for B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) testing are typically collected in lavender-topped tubes containing ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) as an anticoagulant. This specific additive helps preserve the integrity of the peptide, preventing degradation and ensuring accurate laboratory results. Other tube types, particularly those containing heparin, may interfere with the assay and are therefore not recommended.
Correct tube selection is crucial for obtaining reliable BNP measurements, which are essential for diagnosing and managing heart failure. Accurate BNP levels assist clinicians in assessing the severity of heart failure, guiding treatment decisions, and monitoring patient response to therapy. Historically, assessing heart failure relied heavily on physical examination and less specific diagnostic tools. The advent of BNP testing has provided a significant advancement in cardiac care, offering a more objective and precise method of evaluation.
