Copper, RBC
Use
Copper is an essential element that is a cofactor of many enzymes. Copper metabolism is disturbed in Wilson's disease, Menkes disease, primary biliary cirrhosis, and Indian childhood cirrhosis. Copper concentrations increase in acute phase reactions. Copper concentrations are decreased with nephrosis, malabsorption, and malnutrition. Copper concentrations are also useful to monitor patients, especially preterm newborns, on nutritional supplementation. Results of copper are often interpreted together with ceruloplasmin.
Special Instructions
Not provided.
Limitations
Not provided.
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry
Biomarkers
Copper (RBC)
Analyte
Result Turnaround Time
2-6 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Whole Blood
Volume
0.5 mL RBCs
Minimum Volume
0.3 mL
Container
EDTA trace metal‑free (royal blue‑top) tube
Collection Instructions
Carefully clean skin prior to venipuncture. Avoid worksite collection. Centrifuge to separate plasma from RBCs and discard plasma. Transfer RBCs to a plastic transfer tube from a Quest Diagnostics trace element and metal‑free collection kit or transport tube.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis; Clotted
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 10 days |
| Refrigerated | 10 days |
| Frozen | Unacceptable |
Other tests from different labs that may be relevant