Serum Copper Mass Concentration
This test measures the amount of copper in your blood serum, an important mineral involved in many bodily functions, including energy production and immune support.
["Copper levels help identify potential deficiencies or excesses that may affect your health."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 27124-7
- Short code
- Copper RBC-mCnt
- Synonyms
- Copper RBC-mCnt
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4.2
- Ref high
- 5.9
- Critical range
- 2 N/A – 7 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85041
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003001
- 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 Do I Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, hair loss, or muscle weakness, or if you have conditions like Wilson’s disease, liver problems, or kidney disease that can impact copper metabolism.
What Does a Copper Test Tell Me?
Low copper levels might suggest dietary deficiencies, certain medications, or underlying health conditions. High levels could indicate liver disease, Wilson’s disease, or kidney issues that need further evaluation.
How Is This Test Done?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The serum portion is then analyzed to measure copper concentration using a specialized laboratory method.
What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?
Copper levels can be affected by diet, medications (like antibiotics or antacids), liver or kidney disease, or genetic disorders. Lifestyle factors, such as smoking or alcohol use, may also play a role.
Reference range
Adult males: 4.2-5.9; Females: 3.8-5.1 x 10^12/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal copper levels can indicate conditions like Wilson’s disease (a genetic disorder causing copper buildup), liver cirrhosis, or copper deficiency syndromes, which may require medical treatment or dietary adjustments.
Short name
Copper Level
Frequently asked questions
What if My Copper Level Is Too Low?
What if My Copper Level Is Too High?
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy