Zinc in Serum (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of zinc, a mineral essential for many bodily functions, in your blood serum. Zinc helps support immune function, wound healing, and metabolism.
["Zinc levels can help assess nutritional status and certain health conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 13652-3
- Short code
- Zinc Hair-mCnt
- Synonyms
- Zinc Hair-mCnt
- 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?
Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for zinc deficiency, which can occur due to poor diet, certain medications, or medical conditions like Crohn’s disease or malabsorption disorders. It may also be used to monitor zinc levels in people with chronic illnesses or those receiving zinc supplements.
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’s part of a broader metabolic panel. Bring any medications or supplements you’re taking to your appointment.
What Happens During the Test?
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. You may feel a brief pinch, but the process is quick. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.
What Are Possible Results?
Results are typically reported in micrograms per deciliter (mcg/dL). While reference ranges vary by lab, lower-than-normal levels may indicate deficiency, while higher levels could signal conditions like kidney disease or certain infections.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Low zinc levels may contribute to weakened immunity, delayed wound healing, or neurological issues. High levels can sometimes signal underlying health problems, such as kidney dysfunction or excessive zinc intake from supplements. Always discuss results with your provider for personalized interpretation.
Short name
Serum Zinc Level
Frequently asked questions
What causes low zinc levels in the blood?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink before 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