Copper, 24-Hour Urine
Use
This test measures the total amount of copper excreted in urine over a 24-hour period. It is used to assess copper metabolism and is particularly useful in the evaluation of disorders such as Wilson’s disease, copper toxicity, and malabsorption. Increased levels may indicate Wilson’s disease or copper exposure, while decreased levels can be seen in conditions like malabsorption or nutritional deficiency.
Special Instructions
Collect all urine produced in a 24-hour period. Ensure proper patient preparation and container handling to avoid contamination. Follow specific instructions to accurately capture the full 24‑hour urine volume.
Limitations
Results may be affected by incomplete collection, dietary copper intake, or improper storage. Variability in collection compliance may lead to false results. Interpretation should consider renal function and concurrent medications or dietary factors that may affect copper excretion.
Methodology
Not provided.
Biomarkers
Result Turnaround Time
Not provided.
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Urine
Volume
Entire 24‑hour urine volume
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Collection Instructions
Collect all urine produced over 24 hours.