Copper, RBCs
Use
The Copper, RBCs test is used to assess copper levels within red blood cells, providing insight into copper stores in the body. It helps in diagnosing copper deficiency or toxicity, as well as monitoring therapy in patients with known copper metabolism disorders.
Special Instructions
Specimens must be collected in certified metal-free containers to avoid environmental contamination. Elevated results should be verified using another specimen collected in a trace metal-free container.
Limitations
The test requires RBC samples to be collected in royal blue top tubes that are trace metal-free, with EDTA as the anticoagulant. Tubes with heparin-based anticoagulants are unacceptable. Contamination from environmental sources during specimen collection can lead to elevated results. Proper interpretation of test results should account for potential contamination factors.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 5630-9
- 5630-9
Result Turnaround Time
9-13 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Other
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.3 mL
Container
Royal Blue top tube (Trace metal-free; EDTA)
Collection Instructions
Draw blood in a royal blue top (trace metal-free; EDTA) tube(s). Centrifuge and separate plasma within two hours of collection. Leave RBCs in the original collection container and replace stopper. Send 1 mL RBC's refrigerated.
Storage Instructions
Send 1 mL RBC's refrigerated.
Causes for Rejection
Polymer gel separation tube (PST), Received Room Temperature, Received Frozen, Light Green top tube (Lithium Heparin), Tan top tube - glass (Sodium Heparin), Green top tube (Lithium Heparin), Royal Blue top tube (Trace metal-free; Sodium Heparin), Green top tube (Sodium Heparin).
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 14 days |