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Zinc in Serum Concentration (Qualitative or Semi-Quantitative)

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

This test measures the amount of zinc, a mineral important for immune function, metabolism, and wound healing, in your blood serum. Results may be qualitative (yes/no) or semi-quantitative (approximate levels).

Quick summary

["Zinc levels can help identify deficiencies or excesses that may affect your health."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
50939-8
Short code
Zinc Hair-sCnt
Synonyms
Zinc Hair-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 Might This Test Be Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like frequent infections, slow wound healing, hair loss, or fatigue. It might also be checked in people with certain medical conditions, such as chronic illnesses or malabsorption disorders, or if you’re taking medications that affect zinc absorption.

What Does a Low Zinc Level Mean?

Low zinc levels could indicate poor nutrition, certain gastrointestinal diseases, or conditions that interfere with zinc absorption. It may also signal underlying health issues that need further evaluation, such as immune system problems or metabolic disorders.

What Does a High Zinc Level Mean?

High zinc levels might suggest overconsumption of zinc supplements, certain liver diseases, or rare genetic conditions. Excess zinc can sometimes lead to side effects like nausea or copper deficiency, so monitoring is important.

How Is This Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it is analyzed to determine zinc concentration. Results are reported qualitatively or semi-quantitatively, depending on the method used.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Zinc Levels and Health

Short name

Zinc Level (Qualitative)

Frequently asked questions

What Are Common Causes of Low Zinc Levels?
Common causes include poor diet (low intake of zinc-rich foods like meat, nuts, and seeds), gastrointestinal disorders (like Crohn’s disease or celiac disease), chronic illnesses, or certain medications that interfere with zinc absorption. Zinc deficiency can weaken the immune system, slow healing, and cause other health issues.
What Are Common Causes of High Zinc Levels?
High zinc levels can result from taking excessive zinc supplements or medications, liver disease, or rare genetic disorders. Long-term high zinc levels may lead to copper deficiency or other health complications, so it’s important to discuss results with your doctor.
How Often Should I Get This Test?
Your doctor will determine the frequency based on your health status, symptoms, and medical history. Routine screening for zinc levels is not typically recommended unless you have specific risk factors or conditions.
  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