Copper in Tissues (Rhodanase Stain Test)
This test measures the presence of copper in your body’s tissues using a special staining method. It helps assess how well your body is handling copper, which is important for many bodily functions.
["This test helps diagnose conditions related to copper metabolism or storage."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 10751-6
- Short code
- Copper Tiss Rhodanine stain
- Synonyms
- Copper Tiss Rhodanine stain
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- rhodanine-stain
- 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 joint pain, skin changes, or neurological issues that could be linked to copper imbalance. It may also be used in cases of suspected Wilson’s disease or other copper-related disorders, especially when other tests like serum copper levels are inconclusive.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically needed for this test. You may provide a tissue sample (such as a skin biopsy) or, in some cases, a blood sample for analysis. Follow your provider’s instructions carefully.
How the Test Works
The test uses a rhodanase stain to detect copper in tissues. This involves applying a special dye that reacts with copper, allowing for visual confirmation of its presence and distribution within the sample.
What the Results Mean
Results are interpreted by comparing the staining pattern to known standards. High copper levels in tissues may indicate conditions like Wilson’s disease, while normal or low levels help rule out copper-related disorders.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal copper tissue levels can signal underlying metabolic disorders, such as Wilson’s disease, which involves copper buildup due to impaired excretion. It can also help diagnose other conditions affecting copper metabolism, such as hereditary hemochromatosis variants or copper deficiency syndromes. Early detection is key for managing symptoms and preventing complications.
Short name
Copper Tissue Analysis
Frequently asked questions
What causes copper tissue levels to be tested?
How long does it take to get results?
Can lifestyle changes affect 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