Skip to content

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

["Copper levels can signal health issues like Wilson’s disease or copper deficiency disorders."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
16648-8
Short code
Copper Fld-mCnc
Synonyms
Copper Fld-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
86430
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 This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, nausea, or neurological problems, or if you have a known condition affecting copper metabolism (e.g., Wilson’s disease). They might also order it to monitor treatment progress or check for copper overload in certain genetic disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this blood test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw a blood sample. If you’re nervous, let your provider know—they can help make it more comfortable.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to standard reference ranges for healthy adults. Abnormal levels may indicate underlying health concerns that need further evaluation, such as liver disease, kidney problems, or genetic disorders.

Common Conditions Linked to Copper Levels

High copper levels can be linked to conditions like Wilson’s disease, where the body can’t properly excrete copper, or liver disease. Low copper levels may be associated with malnutrition, certain medications, or genetic disorders affecting copper absorption.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Serum Copper

Frequently asked questions

What causes copper levels to be tested?
Copper levels are checked if you have symptoms like abdominal pain, neurological issues, or if your doctor suspects a genetic disorder like Wilson’s disease. It may also be part of a broader evaluation for liver or kidney problems.
How do I prepare for this test?
No special preparation is needed. You can eat and drink normally before the test, but let your provider know about any medications or supplements you’re taking, as they may affect results.
Can copper levels be affected by diet?
Yes, certain foods high in copper (like organ meats, shellfish, or nuts) can influence results. If you’re concerned, discuss your diet with your provider before the test, but they may still want an accurate baseline measurement.
  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