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Zinc in Serum or Plasma (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 immunity, wound healing, and proper nerve and muscle function."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
5763-8
Short code
Zinc SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
Zinc SerPl-mCnc
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 You Need This Test?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for zinc deficiency, which can occur due to poor diet, certain medical conditions, or malabsorption issues. It may also be used to monitor zinc levels in people with chronic illnesses or those receiving treatments that affect mineral balance.

Common Reasons for Testing

Common reasons include evaluating symptoms like hair loss, frequent infections, slow wound healing, or unexplained fatigue. It may also be part of a broader evaluation for conditions like diabetes, Crohn’s disease, or alcoholism.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your blood is drawn early in the morning. Avoid taking zinc supplements or certain medications (like some antibiotics) for a few days before testing.

What Happens During the Test?

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis using a specialized method to measure zinc concentration.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Zinc Level

Frequently asked questions

What Does a Low Zinc Level Mean?
A low zinc level may signal dietary deficiencies, chronic illnesses (like Crohn’s disease), or conditions affecting absorption (e.g., celiac disease). Your provider may recommend dietary changes, supplements, or additional tests to identify the cause.
What Does a High Zinc Level Mean?
High zinc levels can result from liver disease, kidney failure, or excessive zinc intake. It may also be temporary due to recent zinc supplementation or certain medications. Further testing may be needed to determine the exact cause.
Can Zinc Levels Change with Diet?
Yes, zinc intake from food (like meat, shellfish, nuts, and seeds) can affect your blood levels. Avoiding zinc-rich foods or supplements for a few days before testing may help ensure more accurate results.
  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