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Copper in Serum (Mass Concentration)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of copper, a trace mineral, present in your blood serum. Copper plays a role in various body functions, including iron metabolism and antioxidant defense.

Quick summary

["Your blood copper levels help assess copper balance and potential deficiencies or excesses."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
52912-3
Short code
Copper Tiss-sCnt
Synonyms
Copper Tiss-sCnt
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 Is This Test Done?

Doctors may order a serum copper test to diagnose or monitor conditions like Wilson’s disease (a genetic disorder affecting copper metabolism), copper deficiency, or liver disease. It can also help evaluate iron-related disorders or check for signs of copper toxicity.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re on blood thinners or have a history of bleeding disorders, let your provider know beforehand.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to a general reference range, but exact values can vary by lab. Abnormally low levels may indicate deficiencies or certain genetic conditions, while very high levels could signal liver issues or Wilson’s disease.

Common Conditions Linked to Copper Levels

Changes in copper levels are often tied to liver disease, Wilson’s disease, or conditions affecting iron absorption. Rarely, copper toxicity can occur with excessive intake.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Serum copper testing is primarily used to identify underlying metabolic or genetic disorders affecting copper metabolism, guide treatment decisions, or monitor disease progression in patients with known conditions.

Short name

Serum Copper

Frequently asked questions

What causes copper levels to be low?
Low copper levels may result from malabsorption (e.g., celiac disease), liver disease, certain medications, or genetic disorders like Menkes syndrome. Dietary deficiencies alone are less common in healthy individuals.
How long does it take to get test results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Follow-up with your healthcare provider if you have concerns about your results.
Can diet affect copper test results?
Dietary copper intake is minimal and usually doesn’t significantly alter test results. However, if you suspect dietary influences, discuss them with your provider, as some conditions (e.g., Wilson’s disease) may require dietary restrictions.
  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