Copper Test

Our blood carries a protein called ceruloplasmin, whose job is to create copper. The Copper test, also known as the Total copper serum test, is a test that is used to measure the amount of copper in the blood. Copper is essential for various processes in the body; it helps the body make melanin, bone, and more. There are several health issues that can hamper the normal levels of copper in our blood. In such case scenarios, you will either have too little copper or excess copper – copper deficiency and copper toxicity. Copper deficiency is especially prevalent in malnourished children or premature babies. The deficiency can also be due to genetic disorder. Deficiency as well as toxicity of copper can be harmful for the body and can cause several diseases. The test is required to check if you have symptoms that are associated with deficiency or toxicity of copper.

You do not need to prepare specifically for the test. You only have to make sure that you have gathered all the information from your doctor and are well aware about the process and the medications. Apart from this, it is advisable to wear half-sleeved T-shirt or Shirt on the day when you go to give your blood sample to make it convenient.

The test results are usually available in a few days’ time. The normal range of copper in your blood is 70 to 140 micrograms per decilitre. If the results show an amount less than the normal range, it could mean several things. You may be affected with a kidney disease, a nutritional deficiency, or maybe your body is unable to absorb copper. If your test results are high, which means you have excess copper in your system, it may mean that you are suffering from any of the several diseases caused by it. These include anaemia, infection, leukaemia, lymphoma, etc. Depending on your condition, your doctor will take the best route for you.

For the test, your doctor will require your blood sample. He or she will take the blood from a vein in your arm. Pricking the needle and drawing blood is not painful. The sample collected will then by analysed to check for copper disorder.