: Copper (Substance Concentration) in Whole Blood

: What Is Being Measured

: Copper is a trace mineral found in every cell of the body. It is needed to make red blood cells, keep nerves and bones healthy, and help the body use iron. This test measures how much copper is present in a sample of whole blood, which includes both the fluid and the blood cells.

: Why Your Doctor May Order This Test

: Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms that could suggest too little or too much copper, such as unexplained anemia, fatigue, tingling in the hands and feet, or liver problems. It may also be used to monitor a known copper-related condition or to check whether treatment is working.

: How the Sample Is Collected

: A small amount of blood is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm, into a special tube. Because copper is common in the environment, the collection tube must be free of trace-metal contamination to help ensure an accurate result. No special preparation is typically needed unless your provider gives other instructions.

: What the Results Mean

: Results are reported as a concentration of copper in whole blood. Your provider will interpret the number alongside your symptoms, other blood tests, and your medical history. Copper levels outside the expected range do not by themselves diagnose a condition; they are one piece of a larger picture.