Copper
A trace mineral needed for iron metabolism, connective tissue, nerve function and antioxidant enzymes.
| Typical reference range | 70–175 ug/dL |
Ranges vary by laboratory, method, age and sex: always use the range printed on your own report. Why labs differ.
What it measures
Copper is absorbed in the intestine and about 90% of blood copper is bound to ceruloplasmin. It is a cofactor for enzymes involved in iron handling, collagen formation, energy production and neurotransmitter synthesis.
Why it matters
Copper deficiency can cause anemia, low white cell counts and nerve damage that mimics B12 deficiency. Abnormal copper and ceruloplasmin are also used to screen for Wilson's disease.
What a high result can mean
High levels occur with inflammation and infection (ceruloplasmin is an acute-phase protein), pregnancy, estrogen and oral contraceptive use, liver disease with bile obstruction, and copper supplementation.
What a low result can mean
Low levels occur with excess zinc supplementation, malabsorption (celiac disease, bariatric surgery), malnutrition, Wilson's disease (low total copper with low ceruloplasmin), Menkes disease and nephrotic syndrome.
What affects the result
Use a trace-element-free tube. Estrogen raises copper substantially. Interpret with ceruloplasmin and zinc; the zinc/copper balance is often reviewed together.
Units and conversion
Usually reported in ug/dL.
- From umol/L: multiply by 6.355 to get ug/dL
- From ug/L: multiply by 0.1 to get ug/dL
- From mg/L: multiply by 100 to get ug/dL
Also called on lab reports
Copper, Serum, Copper, Plasma, Cu, Copper, Blood
Related tests: Vitamins & Nutrients
This page is educational and does not replace advice from a healthcare professional.