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Total urinary copper excretion rate over 24 hours

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures how much copper your body excretes in urine over a full day. Copper is a mineral that plays a role in many body functions, including energy production and immune support.

Quick summary

["Assessing copper loss in urine helps identify potential copper deficiency or kidney-related issues."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
5633-3
Short code
Copper 24h Ur-mRate
Synonyms
Copper 24h Ur-mRate
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your doctor may order this test if they suspect conditions like Wilson’s disease (a genetic disorder affecting copper metabolism), kidney problems, or excessive copper loss due to certain medications or health conditions.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to collect all urine for 24 hours, starting and ending with your first urine of the next day. Store samples properly to preserve accuracy.

How the Test Works

The collected urine is analyzed to determine the total copper content excreted during the period. This helps assess copper metabolism and identify abnormalities.

Possible Results and Interpretation

Results may indicate whether copper loss is higher than normal, which could signal underlying health concerns. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your medical history.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Copper excretion can be elevated in conditions like Wilson’s disease, where copper buildup or loss occurs abnormally. Low excretion might suggest malabsorption or other metabolic issues, prompting further evaluation.

Short name

24-Hour Urine Copper

Frequently asked questions

What causes abnormal urinary copper levels?
Abnormal urinary copper levels may be linked to genetic disorders (e.g., Wilson’s disease), certain medications, kidney disease, or conditions affecting copper metabolism.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–2 weeks after lab processing, depending on lab workflows and your healthcare provider’s schedule.
Can diet affect this test?
Dietary copper intake may influence results, so avoid high-copper foods (e.g., organ meats, shellfish) during the 24-hour collection period unless instructed otherwise.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy