Copper, Serum
Use
This test is useful for diagnosing Wilson disease, primary biliary cholangitis, and primary sclerosing cholangitis. It measures serum copper, an important trace element associated with various metalloproteins. Abnormal serum copper levels can indicate disorders like Wilson disease, characterized by low serum copper due to decreased ceruloplasmin synthesis, or conditions like primary biliary cholangitis, where serum copper may be elevated.
Special Instructions
Patient preparation involves avoiding specimen collection within 96 hours of administration of gadolinium, iodine, or barium-containing contrast media due to potential interference. Specimens need to be handled with care to prevent contamination, notably using metal-free containers.
Limitations
The test does not replace clinical evaluations and may be influenced by external factors such as dietary intake or exposure to substances like zinc. False normal readings might occur during acute phases of Wilson disease due to hepatic inflammation altering copper levels.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 5631-7
- 5631-7
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.8 mL
Minimum Volume
0.2 mL
Container
6-mL Plain, royal blue-top Vacutainer plastic trace element blood collection tube
Collection Instructions
Allow the specimen to clot for 30 minutes; then centrifuge the specimen to separate serum from the cellular fraction. Pour into a metal-free polypropylene vial avoiding cellular components. See Metals Analysis Specimen Collection and Transport for complete instructions.
Patient Preparation
Avoid collecting specimen for 96 hours after administration of gadolinium, iodine, or barium contrast media.
Causes for Rejection
Specimens with gross hemolysis, lipemia, or icterus are acceptable.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 28 days |
| Refrigerated | 28 days |
| Frozen | 28 days |