Copper Reflex Ceruloplasmin Test

Ceruloplasmin is a glycoprotein that is produced in the liver and it transfers or carries over 95 percent of copper in the blood plasma. Copper plays an essential function in the body by supporting vital physical processes. Which include, building connective tissue, producing energy and aiding the central nervous system function properly. A Ceruloplasmin testing is used mostly, with blood or/and urine copper tests in order to help diagnose Wilson disease, which is a rare inherited genetic disorder, coupled with extra storage of copper in the brain, liver as well as other organs along with decreased levels of Ceruloplasmin.

No special preparation is required for the ceruloplasmin test. However, here are a few tips that will come handy before going for a blood test. Many people are under the assumption that they should avoid drinking water before a blood draw. However, this is only a myth. Drinking water will in fact, make you feel much better if you’re fasting and it will also make your blood draw smooth. As our blood is made up of 50 percent of water, the more water you drink, your veins will become plumper and it will become easier for the technician to draw your blood. Wear a half sleeved tee shirt as you won’t have the trouble pulling up your sleeves and the technician can draw your blood out with ease.

The standard range of ceruloplasmin in the blood is between 20-50 milligrams per deciliter. If you test results have shown below the normal range it could signify the existence of Wilson’s disease or other health problems like intestinal malabsorption, liver failure, liver disease, cirrhosis, Menkes syndrome, Nephrotic syndrome etc. On the other hand if your ceruloplasmin results are on a higher side than the standard range it could indicate that you have either a serious infection, lymphoma, rheumatoid arthritis or you’re pregnant. It is important to note here that the ceruloplasmin test isn’t used to diagnose these conditions. This test is mostly used if someone has the symptoms of Wilson’s disease. If the test results show any other abnormalities your doctor will help in interpreting your results.

One needs to provide a blood sample for the ceruloplasmin test.
The procedure for obtaining a blood sample:
The arm is wrapped with a band that is about 3-4 inches above the collection site.
This site is then cleansed with alcohol away from the region of needle insertion.
The cap of the needle is removed and is held in line with the vein, pulling the skin tightly.
The vein is penetrated with a small quick trust.
The requisite amount of blood is then collected by pulling the nozzle of the needle out carefully.
The band is removed from the arm and gauze is placed on the site where the blood had been collected.
The blood is instantly transmitted in a blood container and the syringe and the needle are disposed off in a hygienic manner.
The blood is then sent to a lab for testing.