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Zinc Mass Concentration in Serum

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

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 proper taste and smell.

Quick summary

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

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
29245-8
Short code
Zinc Nail-mCnt
Synonyms
Zinc Nail-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 Might This Test Be Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for zinc deficiency, which can cause symptoms like fatigue, hair loss, or weakened immunity. It may also be done if you have symptoms like loss of taste or smell, slow wound healing, or frequent infections. Rarely, it could be part of a broader evaluation for unexplained symptoms or certain medical conditions.

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 uses a fasting protocol, but this is not always required. Bring any medications you’re currently taking to your appointment.

How the Test Is Performed

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis. The test typically takes a few minutes, and you may feel slight discomfort but no lasting effects.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to standard reference ranges, though exact values can vary by lab. Low zinc levels may indicate deficiency, while very high levels could signal conditions like acute kidney injury or certain medications. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your overall health.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Zinc Level

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get my results?
Test 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 and discuss them with you.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Most labs do not require fasting for zinc testing, but check with your provider or lab for specific instructions. If fasting is needed, avoid food or liquids (except water) for 8–12 hours before drawing blood.
What causes low zinc levels?
Low zinc levels can result from poor diet (low intake of zinc-rich foods like meat, nuts, or seeds), malabsorption issues (e.g., celiac disease, Crohn’s), chronic illnesses (e.g., diabetes, kidney disease), or excessive sweating (e.g., athletes or those with certain skin 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