Copper: Plasma and Red Blood Cell Levels

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The Copper, Plasma and Red Blood Cell (RBC) test is a comprehensive assessment designed to measure copper levels in both the fluid portion of your blood (plasma) and within your red blood cells. This dual approach provides a more complete picture of your body's copper status, helping to identify potential deficiencies or excesses. Copper is an essential trace mineral vital for many bodily functions, including energy production, iron metabolism, nervous system health, and immune function.

Quick facts

Sample type

Packed RBCs and plasma

Turnaround

2–4 business days

Fasting

No Fasting Required

Doctor’s order included

Licensed physician review and requisition included with every test.

Copper: Plasma and Red Blood Cell Levels

  • Vitamins & Nutrition
  • General Health & Wellness
  • Cpt Codes
    • 82525(x2)

    what is Copper: Plasma and Red Blood Cell Levels and why is it important?

    The Copper, Plasma and Red Blood Cell (RBC) test is a comprehensive assessment designed to measure copper levels in both the fluid portion of your blood (plasma) and within your red blood cells. This dual approach provides a more complete picture of your body's copper status, helping to identify potential deficiencies or excesses. Copper is an essential trace mineral vital for many bodily functions, including energy production, iron metabolism, nervous system health, and immune function.

    You may consider this test if you are experiencing:

    • Persistent fatigue, pale skin, frequent infections, or brittle bones, which could indicate copper deficiency.
    • Unexplained neurological issues, such as poor coordination, difficulty walking, or changes in sensation.
    • Signs of potential copper toxicity, including abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes), or new onset neurological/psychiatric symptoms.
    • If your healthcare provider suspects a genetic disorder impacting copper metabolism.
    • As part of a comprehensive nutritional assessment, especially if dietary intake or absorption is a concern.

    This test can benefit individuals who are:

    • Experiencing unexplained fatigue, weakness, or neurological symptoms like numbness, tingling, or coordination problems.
    • Showing symptoms suggestive of copper excess, such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or liver issues.
    • Concerned about a family history of conditions affecting copper metabolism, like Wilson's disease or Menkes disease.
    • Undergoing long-term total parenteral nutrition (TPN) or have conditions affecting nutrient absorption.
    • Monitoring copper levels due to occupational exposure or specific medical treatments.

    This Copper, Plasma and Red Blood Cell test is a crucial diagnostic tool often utilized in the investigation and management of various conditions related to copper metabolism. It is commonly used for the diagnosis or monitoring of:

    • Copper Deficiency: Identifying inadequate copper levels that can lead to anemia, neurological dysfunction (e.g., neuropathy, ataxia), immune system impairment, bone abnormalities, and connective tissue disorders. This is particularly relevant in cases of malabsorption, bariatric surgery, or prolonged nutritional deficiencies.
    • Copper Toxicity/Excess: Detecting elevated copper levels, which can be toxic to the liver, brain, and other organs. This is critical in diagnosing conditions like Wilson's disease, a genetic disorder causing copper accumulation, or in cases of excessive supplementation or environmental exposure.
    • Menkes Disease: Although less common, this genetic disorder causes severe copper deficiency, and while diagnosis is often early in life, copper level assessment is foundational.
    • Unexplained Neurological Symptoms: Investigating potential underlying copper imbalances when patients present with neurological issues such as tremors, coordination problems, cognitive changes, or peripheral neuropathies.
    • Anemia of Unknown Origin: Differentiating iron-deficiency anemia from copper-deficiency anemia, as copper plays a vital role in iron metabolism.
    • Liver Dysfunction: Assessing copper's role in liver health, as both deficiency and toxicity can impact liver function and disease progression.

    Caution

    Please note that test results should always be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider in the context of your complete medical history, symptoms, and other diagnostic findings. This test provides valuable information about your copper levels, but it is not intended for self-diagnosis or to replace professional medical advice.

    How It Works?

    1
    Add Your Test to Cart and Check out

    once Test Order is received, Our physicians will review your request and email you the easy-to-follow requisition form.


    2
    Locate and Visit Your Nearest Laboratory

    Find the closest partner location—most are within 2–3 miles—and drop by for a quick, no‑appointment blood draw.


    3
    Get your Results Online

    Once your sample is processed, we’ll send your report straight to your inbox within 1–3 business days. Just click the link to view your results anytime.


    4
    Book a Optional Consult

    Have Questions about results? Book a phone or video visit with one of our doctors. They’ll walk you through your report, explain any findings, and recommend next steps