Serum/plasma mass concentration of zinc (total)
This test measures the amount of zinc in your blood, an essential mineral that helps support immune function, wound healing, and proper nerve and muscle function.
["Zinc helps your body stay healthy and may affect how certain medications work."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 73528-2
- Short code
- AM+BZ ind plt IgG SerPl Ql FC
- Synonyms
- AM+BZ ind plt IgG SerPl Ql FC
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- flow-cytometry
- CPT
- 82784
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for zinc deficiency, which can occur due to poor diet, certain medical conditions, or malabsorption issues. They might also evaluate zinc levels if you have symptoms like frequent infections, slow wound healing, or hair loss. In some cases, it’s part of a broader evaluation for chronic illnesses or after certain treatments.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s drawn from fasting blood. Wear comfortable clothing and plan to stay near the testing site for a short time. If you’re taking zinc supplements, let your provider know, as they may affect results.
What to Expect During the Test
A healthcare professional will insert a small needle into a vein in your arm to draw blood. You may feel a slight pinch, but the process is quick. The blood sample will be sent to a lab for analysis. If you experience dizziness or discomfort, inform the staff immediately.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to standard reference ranges, but exact values can vary by lab. Low zinc levels may indicate deficiency, while high levels could signal kidney disease, certain infections, or other conditions. Your provider will discuss results in the context of your overall health.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Zinc deficiency is common in people with chronic illnesses, poor nutrition, or digestive disorders that impair nutrient absorption. It can weaken immunity, slow healing, and cause neurological symptoms. Conversely, excessively high zinc levels may signal kidney problems or overuse of supplements. Regular monitoring helps manage conditions like diabetes, HIV, or autoimmune diseases where zinc balance is critical.
Short name
Zinc Level
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Will this test affect my medications?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy