Copper, Liver Tissue
Use
Useful for diagnosing Wilson disease and primary biliary cirrhosis using liver tissue specimens. Elevated hepatic copper (>250 mcg/g dry weight) strongly suggests Wilson disease; moderately elevated levels (50–250 mcg/g dry weight) may indicate cholestatic liver disease or heterozygous carrier status. Interpretation should consider histology and other biochemical tests, and contamination must be ruled out. A minimum dry tissue weight of 0.3 mg is required, and fresh‑frozen unfixed tissue is strongly recommended to avoid contamination from copper‑containing fixatives. ([mayocliniclabs.com](https://www.mayocliniclabs.com/test-catalog/Overview/8687?utm_source=openai))
Special Instructions
Specimen collection and transport require a metal‑free specimen vial (T173); submit fresh‑frozen unfixed tissue to minimize contamination. Paraffin blocks are acceptable only if no more than 1–2 cuts have been made. If not ordering electronically, use Gastroenterology and Hepatology Test Request (T728) form. ([mayocliniclabs.com](https://www.mayocliniclabs.com/test-catalog/overview/8687?utm_source=openai))
Limitations
Paraffin blocks cut on a microtome previously used with copper‑containing fixatives may be contaminated and are discouraged. Fresh‑frozen unfixed tissue is strongly recommended. Minimal dry tissue weight is 0.3 mg, but more is needed due to manipulation during analysis. Contamination during collection, handling, or processing can falsely elevate copper levels and must be considered. ([mayocliniclabs.com](https://www.mayocliniclabs.com/test-catalog/Overview/8687?utm_source=openai))
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 8198-4
- 8198-4
Result Turnaround Time
3-6 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Tissue
Volume
2 mg
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Container
Metal‑free specimen vial (T173); acceptable: paraffin block with ≤1–2 cuts
Collection Instructions
Two mg of liver tissue is required. Typically a piece from a 22‑gauge needle biopsy at least 2 cm long; if using 18‑gauge needle, at least 1 cm in length.
Causes for Rejection
Specimens contaminated or not suitable; all specimens evaluated for suitability
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Paraffin‑embedded block: ambient (16 to 24 °C) ≥12½ years |
| Frozen | Fresh or formalin‑fixed tissue: frozen (‑30 to ‑10 °C) ≥20 years |