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Serum Ceruloplasmin Concentration

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

This test measures the amount of ceruloplasmin, a protein in your blood that helps transport copper and may play a role in iron metabolism.

Quick summary

["Ceruloplasmin helps identify copper metabolism disorders, including Wilson’s disease."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
102278-9
Short code
D microceras IgE RAST
Synonyms
D microceras 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 Might Be Ordered

Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, abdominal pain, or neurological issues that could be linked to copper imbalance. It’s also used to monitor copper levels in conditions like Wilson’s disease or hemochromatosis.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. It usually takes about 15 minutes, and you can resume normal activities afterward.

What the Results Mean

Results help doctors assess whether copper metabolism is functioning properly. Abnormally low levels may suggest Wilson’s disease or other copper storage disorders, while high levels might indicate liver disease or other conditions.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is critical for diagnosing and managing Wilson’s disease, a genetic disorder causing copper buildup in organs. It may also be used in research or rare cases of copper deficiency.

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.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Ceruloplasmin Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes ceruloplasmin levels to change?
Changes in ceruloplasmin can occur due to genetic disorders like Wilson’s disease, liver disease, or certain medications. It may also fluctuate with diet, pregnancy, or chronic illness.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your doctor will discuss them with you during your follow-up visit.
Can diet affect ceruloplasmin test results?
Dietary copper intake may influence copper metabolism, but it’s usually not a major factor in routine ceruloplasmin testing. Your doctor may advise avoiding copper-rich foods if monitoring copper levels closely.
  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