Copper, Urine
Also known as: COPPER U
Use
This test is useful in assessing trace element overload conditions. It is particularly relevant in the context of Wilson Disease and can help evaluate cholestatic liver disease, proteinuria, and other conditions that may lead to elevated urine copper. A 24-hour urine collection provides a consistent indicator of copper excretion, which is essential for accurate diagnosis and monitoring of these conditions.
Special Instructions
Patients should discontinue nutritional supplements, vitamins, and nonessential medications as they may introduce interfering substances. Avoid collecting specimens from patients exposed to iodinated or gadolinium-based contrast media for at least 72 hours, and for at least 14 days post-exposure if the patient has impaired kidney function. Collect and store specimens in ARUP Trace Element-Free Transport Tubes to minimize contamination risk.
Limitations
Elevated results may be caused by contamination from non-certified collection containers or skin contaminants during collection. Elevated urine copper may also be due to certain medications or medical conditions unrelated to trace element overload. This test has not been cleared or approved by the FDA. Interpret results with caution, considering potential contaminations and inconsistencies from non-24-hour urine collections.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 30920-3
- 5633-3
- 35674-1
- 2162-6
- 13829-7
- 19153-6
- 30211-7
- 30920-3
- 5633-3
- 35674-1
- 2162-6
- 13829-7
- 19153-6
- 30211-7
Result Turnaround Time
1-5 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Urine
Volume
8 mL aliquot
Minimum Volume
1 mL
Container
Plastic container, ARUP Trace Element-Free Transport Tubes (ARUP supply #43116)
Collection Instructions
Collect a 24-hour urine and refrigerate during collection. Random urine also acceptable. Transfer an 8 mL aliquot to ARUP Trace Element-Free Transport Tubes. Record total volume and collection time interval on transport tube and test request form.
Patient Preparation
Discontinue nutritional supplements, vitamins, and nonessential medications. Avoid specimen collection from patients exposed to iodinated or gadolinium-based contrast media for 72 hours. For patients with impaired kidney function, avoid specimen collection for at least 14 days post-contrast media exposure.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated. Room temperature or frozen is also acceptable.
Causes for Rejection
Specimens collected within 72 hours after administration of iodinated or gadolinium-based contrast media, acid preserved urine, specimens transported in non-specified containers, specimens contaminated with blood or fecal material.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 1 week |
| Refrigerated | 2 weeks |
| Frozen | 1 year |