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Copper-Ceruloplasmin

Published: July 27, 2026Updated: August 25, 2026

The copper-ceruloplasmin test measures the amount of copper bound to the protein ceruloplasmin in the blood, which helps assess copper metabolism and storage.

Quick summary

Copper-ceruloplasmin levels indicate copper metabolism and storage in the body.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 25, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

Units
mg/dL
Clinical utility
diagnostic
Result kind
quantitative
FDA-cleared
Roche Ceruloplasmin, Abbott Ceruloplasmin, Siemens Ceruloplasmin
interpretation: {"text":"May indicate copper deficiency, malnutrition, or conditions like Menkes disease.","label":"Low Levels"}; {"text":"May suggest copper overload, Wilson's disease, or certain liver conditions.","label":"High Levels"}

Copper is an essential trace element that plays a crucial role in various physiological processes, including the formation of red blood cells, bone maintenance, and nerve function. Ceruloplasmin is a copper-containing enzyme that transports copper in the blood.

The copper-ceruloplasmin test is primarily used to diagnose conditions related to copper deficiency or overload, such as Wilson's disease, where copper accumulates in tissues, and Menkes disease, which is characterized by copper deficiency.

Abnormal levels of copper-ceruloplasmin can also be indicative of liver disease, malnutrition, or other metabolic disorders. The normal reference range for copper-ceruloplasmin is typically between 0–60 mg/dL.

Frequently asked questions

What are the symptoms of copper deficiency?
Symptoms include anemia, neutropenia, impaired growth, and impaired immune function.
How is Wilson's disease diagnosed?
Wilson's disease is diagnosed through a combination of blood tests, urine tests, and sometimes a liver biopsy.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus: Ceruloplasmin TestSource
  2. 2
    National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: Wilson DiseaseSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy