Ceruloplasmin (Serum or Plasma Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of ceruloplasmin, a protein in your blood that helps remove excess copper and may play a role in iron metabolism.
["Ceruloplasmin helps identify copper storage disorders or iron-related conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 46716-7
- Short code
- CERPL-DBS
- Synonyms
- Ceruloplasmin DBS-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Dried blood spot (DBS) collection card - Whatman 903 protein saver card or equivalent
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 20
- Ref high
- 60
- Critical range
- 10 N/A – 90 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–999 years
- Method
- Immunonephelometry
- CPT
- 82390
- SNOMED
- 104064005
- Specimen volume
- 5-6 dried blood spots, each filled completely (approximately 50-75 μL per spot)
- Stability
- DBS samples are stable at room temperature for up to 14 days, refrigerated (2-8°C) for 30 days, and frozen (-20°C) for 6 months
- Hemolysis max
- 50
- Lipemia max
- 100
- Icterus max
- 50
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your doctor may order this test to check for conditions like **Wilson’s disease** (a copper storage disorder) or **hemochromatosis** (iron overload). It can also help monitor treatment progress or investigate unexplained symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, or liver issues.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, usually drawn from your arm. If you’re on blood thinners, let your doctor know before the test.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to a general reference range, but exact values can vary by lab. High levels may suggest certain liver or immune conditions, while low levels often point to copper storage disorders.
Common Conditions Linked to Ceruloplasmin
Low ceruloplasmin is most commonly associated with **Wilson’s disease**, where the body can’t properly remove copper. It may also be linked to iron metabolism disorders or rare genetic conditions affecting protein function.
Reference range
Adults: 20-60 mg/dL (200-600 mg/L). Reference ranges may vary by laboratory method and population.N/A
No fasting required. Avoid hemolyzed specimens as this may interfere with copper measurement.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Ceruloplasmin levels can be low in people with Wilson’s disease, a genetic disorder causing copper buildup in organs. It may also be affected by liver disease, infections, or certain medications. High levels can sometimes indicate inflammation or liver dysfunction, though this is less common.
Short name
Ceruloplasmin Level
Frequently asked questions
What causes ceruloplasmin levels to be low?
How is ceruloplasmin tested?
Can ceruloplasmin levels change with diet?
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 15, 2026. · Read our editorial policy