Copper, Serum or Plasma
Also known as: COPPER
Use
The Copper, Serum or Plasma test is used to assess copper deficiency or overload. It measures both protein-bound and free forms of copper in serum or plasma, which can help in the diagnosis and management of conditions such as Wilson disease, trace element toxicity, and nutritional assessments post-bariatric surgery.
Special Instructions
Diet, medication, and nutritional supplements may introduce interfering substances. Patients should be encouraged to discontinue nutritional supplements, vitamins, minerals, and nonessential over-the-counter medications upon the advice of their physician.
Limitations
Elevated copper levels may result from contamination due to noncertified metal-free collection or transfer tubes. It is recommended to confirm elevated levels with a second specimen. Copper levels may also be elevated due to infection, inflammation, stress, copper supplementation, oral contraceptives, and during pregnancy. Conversely, levels may be reduced by corticosteroids, zinc, malnutrition, or malabsorption.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 5631-7
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
2 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Royal blue (no additive) or royal blue (K2EDTA) or royal blue (NaHep)
Collection Instructions
Separate from cells ASAP or within 2 hours of collection. Transfer to an ARUP Trace Element-Free Transport Tube without using utensils such as syringes or needles.
Patient Preparation
Discontinue nutritional supplements, vitamins, minerals, and nonessential over-the-counter medications upon the advice of a physician.
Storage Instructions
Room temperature is preferred, but refrigerated or frozen is acceptable.
Causes for Rejection
Specimens not separated from red cells or clot within 2 hours or transported in non-specified containers.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Indefinitely |
| Refrigerated | Indefinitely |
| Frozen | Indefinitely |