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Zinc, Serum Concentration

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

This test measures the amount of zinc, a mineral essential for immune function, metabolism, and wound healing, found in your blood serum.

Quick summary

["Zinc helps your body stay healthy and supports many vital processes."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
108681-8
Short code
Zinc Msmt SerPl
Synonyms
Zinc Msmt SerPl
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 cause symptoms like hair loss, frequent infections, or poor wound healing. It may also be used to monitor zinc levels in people with certain medical conditions, such as chronic illnesses or malabsorption disorders.

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 your lab requires it, but this is not always the case. Bring any medications you’re taking to your appointment.

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 compared to a general reference range, but individual ranges may vary by lab. Low zinc levels may indicate deficiency, while very high levels could signal conditions like acute pancreatitis or certain medications.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Low zinc levels can weaken immunity, slow wound healing, and affect taste and smell. High levels may cause nausea, vomiting, or kidney issues. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.

Short name

Zinc Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes low zinc levels?
Zinc deficiency can result from poor diet (low intake), malabsorption (e.g., from celiac disease or Crohn’s), chronic illnesses, or certain medications. Symptoms like fatigue, hair loss, or infections may also signal low levels.
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 provider will discuss them during your follow-up visit.
Can I eat or drink before the test?
Check with your provider first, as some labs require fasting. Generally, water is allowed unless specified otherwise, but avoid alcohol or caffeine before testing.
  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