COPPER
CU
Description
Copper test checks the amount of copper in your blood, urine, or liver tissue. Copper is an essential mineral your body needs for many functions, but imbalances can lead to health issues. This test is often used to detect conditions like Wilson’s disease, a genetic disorder where copper builds up in the body, or to diagnose copper deficiency or toxicity. Doctors may recommend this test to find out if your liver is working as it should or to determine whether your diet includes enough copper. If copper levels are too low, it could point to issues like anemia or trouble absorbing nutrients. On the other hand, high levels might indicate liver damage, excess copper buildup, or possible exposure to toxic chemicals in certain settings. Symptoms like fatigue, jaundice, unusual nerve problems, or abnormal liver function tests may prompt doctors to order this test. Based on the results, your doctor might suggest treatments like dietary changes, medications, or therapies to remove excess copper. Regular testing helps catch problems early and supports healthy metabolism.
Procedure
Invasive
Sample Type
Blood – Serum | Red Blood Cells
Test Category
Trace Minerals, Minerals
Procedure Category
Blood Draw
Units
Micrograms Per Deciliter | Milligrams Per Liter
Test Groups
Complete Metabolic Group: A comprehensive suite of tests designed to evaluate metabolic function, offering detailed insights into various aspects of metabolism and associated health conditions. Complete Nutrient Deficiency Group: This comprehensive group includes an expanded panel of tests covering a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients. Mineral Group: By assessing various parameters related to mineral levels and balance, it provides insights into overall mineral status and associated health considerations.
Optimal Range
For All Individuals:
Conventional Unit: Serum: 90.00–120.00 µg/dL | RBC: 0.50–1.50 mg/L
SI Unit: 14.00–19.00 µmol/L | Not Applicable
Normal Range
For All Individuals:
Conventional Unit: Serum: 70.00–140.00 µg/dL | RBC: 0.50–1.50 mg/L
SI Unit: 11.00–22.00 µmol/L | Not Applicable
Results That Differ From The Norm (Direct and Indirect Causes)
Increased levels may indicate:
Anemia (low red blood cell count)
Biliary cirrhosis (chronic liver disease affecting bile ducts)
Copper toxicity
Hemochromatosis (iron overload disorder)
Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid gland)
Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid gland)
Infections
...
Key Reasons For Testing
Nutritional Status: Assesses copper levels to evaluate overall nutritional health.
Wilson’s Disease Diagnosis: Detects abnormal copper metabolism linked to this rare genetic disorder.
Liver Function: Identifies copper imbalances related to liver conditions like cirrhosis or cholestasis.
Cardiovascular Health: Examines copper’s role in maintaining blood vessel integrity and regulating blood pressure.
...
Health Status Conditions It May Be Used To Assess
Currently, this test is not directly associated with any conditions listed on the Health Status page. However, it may be included as part of a broader set of tests linked to specific health conditions.
Some Prominent Medical Labs That May Offer This Test
Please note that this particular test has not been associated with any of the listed prominent medical labs. We recommend enquiring with your private physician or nearest hospital to determine where this specific test can be performed.
References
Important Note
Any medical procedure yielding results outside the norm may be directly or indirectly linked to the conditions outlined on this page. Various factors, including genetics, medication and supplement usage, recent illnesses, pregnancy, pre-test eating, smoking, and stress, can impact the test's outcome. Additionally, factors like false positives, false negatives, inaccurate analyses, and others can influence results.
Reference ranges, which help healthcare professionals interpret medical tests, may vary depending on age, gender, and other factors. They may also differ between laboratories due to variations in instruments and methods used. Optimal ranges are designed for preventive purposes, aiming to identify trends and potential risks early, while normal ranges reflect conventional laboratory values indicating no current disease or pathology. Your healthcare practitioner may have specific reasons for testing that deviate from the usual or may interpret results differently based on individual circumstances. Proper interpretation typically involves considering clinical findings and other diagnostic tests. Hence, it is crucial to provide your healthcare professionals with a comprehensive medical history, consult with them for result interpretation, and follow their guidance for potential re-testing or additional diagnostics.
Disclaimer
This content is provided solely for informative and educational purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice or treatment from a personal physician. Regarding the interpretation of their medical test results and/or specific health questions, it is recommended that all readers and viewers consult their physicians or other qualified health professionals. The publisher is not responsible for any adverse health effects that may result from reading or following the information in this educational content. Before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program, all viewers, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their physician or health care practitioner.
Please note that while prominent lab names are included in this content, we cannot guarantee that these labs offer all the tests mentioned. For confirmation, individuals should contact the labs directly or consult their medical practitioners. The information provided reflects general knowledge at the time of publication and may not include recent updates or emerging research. Readers should verify details with qualified professionals to ensure the most up-to-date and accurate guidance.
[1] Prohaska JR. Role of copper transporters in copper homeostasis. Am J Clin Nutr. 2008;88(3):826S-829S.
[2] Turnlund JR. Copper metabolism and requirements. Am J Clin Nutr. 1998;67(5 Suppl):960S-964S.
[3] Brewer GJ. Wilson's disease: a clinician's guide to recognition, diagnosis, and management. Am J Med Genet.1999;88(4):217-222.
[4] Harris ED. Cellular copper transport and metabolism. Annu Rev Nutr. 2000;20:291-310.
[5] Stern BR, Solioz M, Krewski D, et al. Copper and human health: biochemistry, genetics, and strategies for modeling dose-response relationships. J Toxicol Environ Health B Crit Rev. 2007;10(3):157-222.
[6] Gaetke LM, Chow CK. Copper toxicity, oxidative stress, and antioxidant nutrients. Toxicology. 2003;189(1-2):147-163.
[7] Ala A, Walker AP, Ashkan K, Dooley JS, Schilsky ML. Wilson's disease. Lancet. 2007;369(9559):397-408.
[8] DiSilvestro RA. Handbook of Minerals as Nutritional Supplements. CRC Press; 2004:191-202. Comprehensive section on copper’s nutritional role and metabolic pathways.
[9] Roberts EA, Schilsky ML. Diagnosis and treatment of Wilson disease: an update. Hepatology. 2008;47(6):2089-2111.
[10] Barceloux DG. Copper. J Toxicol Clin Toxicol. 1999;37(2):217-230. Review on copper’s toxicity, essentiality, and clinical manifestations of deficiency and overload.