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Serum Copper Concentration (Mass Concentration)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures the amount of copper in your blood serum, a mineral important for various bodily functions.

Quick summary

["Copper levels help assess potential deficiencies or excesses that may affect health."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
104844-6
Short code
Copper IgE RAST
Synonyms
Copper IgE RAST
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
40
Critical range
— – 500 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
rast
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302774002
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 Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, hair loss, or neurological issues that could be linked to copper imbalance. It may also be checked in conditions like Wilson’s disease, liver problems, or certain genetic disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but avoid eating or drinking for at least 8 hours before the blood draw. Wear comfortable clothing and arrange for someone to drive you home if needed.

How the Test Is Performed

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. You may feel a slight sting, but the process is quick. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.

Possible Results and Interpretation

Results are compared to standard ranges for your age and sex. Low copper levels may indicate deficiencies, while high levels could suggest liver disease or other conditions. Your doctor will discuss findings with you.

Reference range

Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Copper Level

Frequently asked questions

What does a low copper level mean?
Low copper levels may be linked to conditions like malabsorption (e.g., celiac disease), liver disease, or certain medications. It can also occur in premature infants or those with poor dietary intake. Your doctor may recommend further testing or dietary adjustments if needed.
What does a high copper level mean?
Elevated copper levels can signal liver problems (e.g., cirrhosis), Wilson’s disease (a genetic disorder), or kidney disease. Chronic high levels may also affect heart or brain function. Your doctor will guide next steps based on your overall health.
Can diet affect copper test results?
Yes, diet can influence copper levels. Foods rich in copper (e.g., shellfish, nuts, organ meats) may temporarily raise results. Avoiding these for a few days before testing can help provide a more accurate baseline.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy