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Serum Copper Concentration (Mass)

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

This test measures the amount of copper present in your blood serum, which helps assess copper metabolism and identify potential deficiencies or excesses.

Quick summary

["Your blood copper levels can signal health concerns like Wilson’s disease or copper overload."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
12556-7
Short code
Copper Bld-mCnc
Synonyms
Copper Bld-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
3 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, nausea, or neurological issues, or if you have a known condition affecting copper metabolism (e.g., Wilson’s disease). It may also be part of routine monitoring for certain genetic disorders or liver/kidney function evaluations.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours before the draw. Avoid consuming foods or supplements high in copper (e.g., organ meats, shellfish) 24 hours before testing.

What Happens During the Test

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis using a specialized method to measure copper concentration accurately.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to general reference ranges for healthy adults, though individual ranges can vary. Abnormally high or low levels may prompt further evaluation for underlying conditions.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Serum Copper

Frequently asked questions

How often should copper levels be checked?
Copper levels are typically checked only when symptoms or medical history suggest a need. Your provider will determine the frequency based on your health status and any conditions they suspect.
What causes copper levels to be too high?
Conditions like Wilson’s disease (a genetic disorder), chronic liver disease, or certain medications may lead to elevated copper levels. Lifestyle factors, such as excessive copper-rich foods, can also contribute.
What causes copper levels to be too low?
Low copper levels may result from malabsorption (e.g., celiac disease), certain medications, or genetic disorders. Rarely, severe copper deficiency can occur in people with liver or kidney disease.
  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