Micronutrient, Copper, Plasma details

Copper is a crucial mineral that helps many of our enzymes work properly. This test checks copper levels in the body, which can tell us a lot about certain health conditions. It's especially important for diagnosing diseases like Wilson's disease, Menkes disease, primary biliary cirrhosis, and Indian childhood cirrhosis. Copper levels can go up during certain times, like when you're sick or in the last part of pregnancy. They can go down if you have kidney problems, trouble absorbing nutrients, or aren't getting enough nutrition. This test is also used to keep an eye on copper levels in people, especially babies born too early, who are getting extra nutrition. Providers often look at copper and ceruloplasmin levels together to get the full picture.

What patients is this test right for?

This test might be recommended if there are concerns about diseases affecting copper metabolism or to monitor copper levels in those receiving nutritional supplements.