Serum Copper (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of copper in your blood serum, which helps assess liver function and identify potential copper-related health concerns.
["Your copper levels can signal liver issues or copper metabolism problems."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 56126-6
- Short code
- Copper Liver-mCnt
- Synonyms
- Copper Liver-mCnt
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 Matters
Copper is an essential mineral that your body needs for various functions, including enzyme activation and antioxidant protection. Your liver plays a key role in regulating copper levels. Abnormal copper levels may indicate liver disease, Wilson’s disease (a genetic disorder affecting copper metabolism), or other health conditions.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a liver function panel. Bring any medications you’re currently taking, as some may affect results. Avoid heavy exercise or strenuous activity the day before.
What the Test Involves
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The blood sample is sent to a lab for analysis. The test typically takes less than 10 minutes, and you may feel a brief pinch or slight discomfort during the draw.
Possible Results and Next Steps
Results are usually reported in micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL). Low levels may suggest liver disease, malnutrition, or copper deficiency, while very high levels could indicate Wilson’s disease or liver dysfunction. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health and may recommend further testing or treatments if needed.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated copper levels can signal liver disorders, including cirrhosis or hepatitis, and may be linked to Wilson’s disease—a rare genetic condition causing copper buildup. Low levels may reflect liver dysfunction, malabsorption, or dietary deficiencies. Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, nausea, or unexplained weight loss, or if they suspect a metabolic or liver-related condition.
Short name
Serum Copper
Frequently asked questions
What causes copper levels to be too high?
What causes copper levels to be too low?
How often should I get this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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