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Zinc concentration in serum/plasma

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 immune function, wound healing, and metabolism—low levels may affect these processes."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
43973-7
Short code
Zinc Spec-sCnc
Synonyms
Zinc Spec-sCnc
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 doctor may order this test to check for zinc deficiency, especially if you have symptoms like frequent infections, slow wound healing, or unusual hair loss. It can also help diagnose conditions like malabsorption (e.g., celiac disease) or certain genetic disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed unless instructed by your provider. You may have a blood draw from a vein in your arm, similar to other blood tests. If you’re on a blood thinner, let your doctor know.

What the Results Mean

Results help determine if your zinc levels are too low or too high. Low levels may require dietary changes, supplements, or medical treatment, while high levels could signal underlying health issues like kidney disease or certain medications.

Common Causes of Abnormal Results

Low zinc levels can result from poor diet, digestive disorders, or certain medications. High levels may be linked to kidney problems, excessive zinc supplements, or rare genetic conditions.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Zinc Level

Frequently asked questions

What Might This Test Be Used For?
This test is often used to screen for zinc deficiency, assess nutritional status, or evaluate symptoms like immune dysfunction or skin issues. It may also be part of broader evaluations for chronic illnesses or after certain surgeries.
How Often Should I Get This Test?
Your doctor will decide based on your health needs—some people get it once a year, while others may need it more often if they have ongoing conditions like diabetes or malabsorption disorders.
Can I Eat or Drink Anything Before the Test?
Typically, you can eat and drink normally unless your doctor specifies otherwise. Some tests require fasting, but this one does not.
  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