Blood Collection Tubes for AVISE Testing
Direct Answer
Contact the AVISE testing laboratory directly or consult their specific specimen collection requirements, as AVISE (Antibody Verification and Identification by Sequencing and Expertise) testing requires specialized autoimmune antibody analysis that demands manufacturer-specific collection protocols not addressed in standard clinical guidelines.
Why Standard Guidelines Don't Apply
The provided evidence focuses on:
- Biobanking for acute lymphoblastic leukemia research 1
- Alzheimer's disease biomarker collection 1
- Cardiac biomarkers (BNP/NT-proBNP) 1
- General serum electrolyte testing 2
- Circulating tumor DNA preservation 3, 4, 5
None of these sources specifically address AVISE testing requirements, which is a proprietary multi-biomarker disease activity test for autoimmune conditions, particularly systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis.
General Principles for Autoimmune Antibody Testing
While awaiting laboratory-specific guidance, general principles for autoimmune serology suggest:
Serum Collection (Most Common)
- Serum separator tubes (SST/gold-top tubes) are typically preferred for antibody testing because serum lacks anticoagulants that might interfere with immunoassays 2
- SST tubes contain clot activators and gel separators that provide clean serum separation after centrifugation 2
- Allow 30-60 minutes clotting time at room temperature before centrifugation 2
Alternative: Plasma Collection
- If plasma is acceptable, EDTA tubes (lavender-top) are commonly used for protein and antibody assays 1
- EDTA provides good preservation of proteins and is suitable for a wide range of protein-based assays 1, 6
- Immediate gentle inversion (8-10 times) after collection is critical 1
Critical Collection Considerations
Timing and Processing
- Process samples within 2 hours of collection when possible to minimize protein degradation 1
- If delays are unavoidable, refrigerate at 4°C (not to exceed 24 hours) 1
- Avoid freeze-thaw cycles once processed 1
Documentation Requirements
- Document the tube type used 1
- Record time between collection and processing 1
- Note storage temperature until processing 1
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Never assume tube types are interchangeable - different anticoagulants can significantly affect immunoassay results 1, 2
- Avoid hemolysis by using appropriate needle gauge (21-gauge recommended for adults) 1
- Fill tubes to the manufacturer's recommended volume to maintain proper blood-to-additive ratios 1
- Follow proper draw order if collecting multiple tube types to prevent cross-contamination 1, 2
Mandatory Action
Contact the performing laboratory (Exagen Diagnostics for AVISE testing) for their current specimen requirements, as proprietary testing platforms have specific validated collection protocols that must be followed for accurate results and to avoid specimen rejection.