Zinc, Serum or Plasma
Also known as: ZINC
Use
This test is useful as an indicator of acute deficiency in zinc levels in patients. Zinc is an essential trace element necessary for numerous biological functions, and its deficiency can lead to various health issues including impaired immune function, stunted growth, and delayed wound healing. Measuring serum or plasma zinc levels helps assess the nutritional and zinc status, especially in contexts such as bariatric surgery where nutritional assessment is critical. Monitoring zinc levels is important in evaluating conditions that might alter its concentration, like pregnancy, infection, or supplementation.
Special Instructions
Diet, medication, and nutritional supplements may introduce interfering substances. Patients should discontinue nutritional supplements, vitamins, minerals, and nonessential over-the-counter medications for one week prior to sample draw.
Limitations
Elevated zinc levels may be due to skin or collection-related contamination, particularly if metal-free collection tubes are not used. Zinc levels are affected by albumin status and can be depressed in malnutrition, infection, inflammation, or stress. Elevated concentrations may result from supplementation or fasting and can interfere with copper absorption. In cases of elevated results, confirmation with a second specimen collected in a certified metal-free tube is recommended.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 5763-8
- 5763-8
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
ARUP Trace Element-Free Transport Tube
Collection Instructions
Collect in royal blue (no additive), royal blue (K2EDTA), or royal blue (NaHep). Separate from cells ASAP or within 2 hours of collection. Transfer to an ARUP Trace Element-Free Transport Tube, avoiding cell components.
Patient Preparation
Discontinue nutritional supplements, vitamins, minerals, and nonessential over-the-counter medications for one week prior to sample draw.
Storage Instructions
Room temperature storage is acceptable, as well as refrigerated or frozen.
Causes for Rejection
Specimens not separated from cells or clot within 2 hours, collected in incorrect containers, or hemolyzed specimens.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Indefinitely |
| Refrigerated | Indefinitely |
| Frozen | Indefinitely |