Copper, Liver
Also known as: CU-LIVER
Use
This test is used to measure the copper concentration in liver tissue. Elevated hepatic copper levels are indicative of Wilson disease, a disorder that prevents the body from eliminating excess copper. This test can also help diagnose chronic biliary obstruction and other cholestatic conditions where elevated hepatic copper levels may be observed. The test provides insight into hepatic copper distribution and can aid in diagnosing conditions where serum or urine assessments are inconclusive.
Special Instructions
This test should be performed when copper toxicity is suspected, particularly in cases suggestive of Wilson disease or other hepatic disorders. Ensure that the specimen is collected in a metal-free container to prevent contamination. The entire submitted specimen will be consumed in the testing process.
Limitations
The interpretation of hepatic copper concentrations may be confounded by the heterogeneity of copper distribution within the liver tissue. Factors such as specimen size and quality are crucial, as specimens less than 0.25 mg or those processed with copper-containing stains are not acceptable. This test does not replace biochemical or genetic testing for Wilson disease but is supplementary to these investigations.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 11526-1
- 29638-4
- 56126-6
Result Turnaround Time
3-10 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Tissue (Fresh)
Volume
Not provided
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Container
Metal-free container such as a royal blue (no additive).
Collection Instructions
Collect liver tissue with an 18-gauge needle. Transport a specimen at least 1 cm long.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated transport is preferred.
Causes for Rejection
Specimens less than 0.25 mg (dry weight) or paraffin blocks processed with Hollandes or other copper-containing stains.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Fresh tissue is unacceptable. Paraffin block, preserved (formalin), or dried are stable indefinitely at ambient temperature. |
| Refrigerated | Fresh tissue is stable for 1 week; paraffin block, preserved (formalin), or dried are stable indefinitely. |
| Frozen | Fresh tissue and other forms are stable indefinitely when frozen. |