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Serum or plasma concentration of zinc (mass concentration)

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

This test measures the amount of zinc, a mineral essential for many bodily functions, in your blood.

Quick summary

["Zinc helps support immune function, wound healing, and metabolism."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
71360-2
Short code
Y chr AZFb region Del Bld/T
Synonyms
Y chr AZFb region Del Bld/T
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
molgen
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 Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for low zinc levels, which can occur due to poor diet, certain medical conditions, or after surgery. It may also be used to monitor zinc status in people with chronic illnesses or those receiving certain treatments.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it involves a blood draw, but confirm with your provider. Avoid smoking or consuming alcohol for a few hours beforehand.

What Happens During the Test?

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but the process is quick. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.

What Are Possible Results?

Results are reported as a concentration of zinc in the blood, typically measured in micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL). Your provider will interpret the result in relation to your overall health and medical history.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Zinc Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes low zinc levels?
Low zinc levels can result from poor diet (especially if you don’t eat enough zinc-rich foods like meat, seafood, or nuts), gastrointestinal issues (such as Crohn’s disease or celiac disease), chronic illnesses, or certain medications. Rarely, genetic disorders may also play a role.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are usually available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your healthcare provider will contact you once they have the results.
Can I eat or drink anything before the test?
If fasting is required (common for blood tests), avoid food and liquids—except water—for 8–12 hours before the test. If no fasting is needed, you can eat and drink normally, but avoid smoking or heavy alcohol consumption for a few hours beforehand.
  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