Ceruloplasmin

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The Ceruloplasmin test is a vital diagnostic tool that evaluates the body's copper metabolism by measuring ceruloplasmin, a primary copper-carrying protein in the blood. This test is crucial for diagnosing conditions such as Wilson's disease, a genetic disorder characterized by excessive copper accumulation in the liver, brain, and other vital organs. It also helps identify imbalances in various chronic liver diseases, neurological conditions, and protein-losing syndromes. Furthermore, it aids in investigating inflammatory states and certain cancers, where ceruloplasmin levels may be elevated.

Quick facts

Sample type

Serum (preferred) or plasma

Turnaround

2–4 business days

Fasting

No Fasting Required

Doctor’s order included

Licensed physician review and requisition included with every test.

Ceruloplasmin

  • Metabolic Health
  • Nutrition & Micronutrients
  • General Health & Wellness
  • Cpt Codes
    • 82390

    what is Ceruloplasmin and why is it important?

    The Ceruloplasmin test is a vital diagnostic tool that evaluates the body's copper metabolism by measuring ceruloplasmin, a primary copper-carrying protein in the blood. This test is crucial for diagnosing conditions such as Wilson's disease, a genetic disorder characterized by excessive copper accumulation in the liver, brain, and other vital organs. It also helps identify imbalances in various chronic liver diseases, neurological conditions, and protein-losing syndromes. Furthermore, it aids in investigating inflammatory states and certain cancers, where ceruloplasmin levels may be elevated.

    When to Consider a Ceruloplasmin Test

    • If you are experiencing unexplained neurological issues such as tremors, difficulty with coordination, or changes in speech and behavior.
    • If you exhibit symptoms of liver dysfunction, including jaundice, unexplained fatigue, or abdominal swelling.
    • When there's a suspicion of Wilson's disease, especially if there's a family history or clinical signs of copper accumulation.
    • In cases of suspected Menkes kinky hair syndrome in infants, characterized by poor growth, neurological decline, and distinctive hair abnormalities.
    • As part of an assessment for conditions involving significant protein loss, such as nephrotic syndrome or malabsorption disorders.
    • If your doctor is investigating certain inflammatory conditions, autoimmune diseases like Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) or rheumatoid arthritis, or specific cancers, where ceruloplasmin levels might be elevated.

    Who Benefits from a Ceruloplasmin Test

    • Individuals with a family history of Wilson's disease or those presenting with symptoms suggestive of a copper metabolism disorder.
    • Patients experiencing unexplained neurological symptoms, including problems with coordination, tremors, or changes in behavior, which could indicate copper accumulation.
    • Those diagnosed with chronic liver disease, such as chronic active hepatitis or cirrhosis, for comprehensive diagnostic evaluation.
    • Individuals with clinical signs of protein loss, including those with nephrotic syndromes or malabsorption issues.
    • People who have been exposed to high levels of copper or are suspected of copper intoxication and require monitoring.

    Commonly Used for Diagnosis of

    • Wilson's Disease (Hepatolenticular Degeneration) : This test is a primary diagnostic tool for Wilson's disease, a genetic disorder characterized by excessive copper accumulation in the liver, brain, and other vital organs. Low ceruloplasmin levels are a hallmark due to impaired copper transport.
    • Chronic Liver Diseases : It is used in the evaluation of chronic active hepatitis and various forms of cirrhosis, especially when a copper metabolism disorder is suspected to be contributing to liver damage.
    • Neurological Disorders of Obscure Etiology : When patients present with unexplained neurological symptoms such as tremors, coordination problems, dysarthria (speech difficulties), or psychiatric changes, ceruloplasmin testing can help rule out or diagnose Wilson's disease as a treatable cause.
    • Menkes Kinky Hair Syndrome : Although rare, extremely low ceruloplasmin levels are found in this severe genetic disorder, which affects copper absorption and transport, leading to neurodegeneration and connective tissue abnormalities in infants.
    • Protein-Losing Conditions : Conditions such as nephrotic syndromes or severe malabsorption can lead to significant protein loss, including ceruloplasmin, resulting in decreased levels.
    • Monitoring Copper Intoxication : While elevated ceruloplasmin can be seen, this test can sometimes aid in the assessment of acute copper toxicity, although free copper levels are often more direct.
    • Inflammatory and Neoplastic States : While not diagnostic, elevated ceruloplasmin levels, as an acute-phase reactant, can indicate various inflammatory conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, SLE), infections, or certain malignancies (e.g., lymphomas, leukemias, carcinomas).
    • Hormonal Influences : Elevated levels are also commonly seen during pregnancy, with estrogen therapy, or oral contraceptive use, which are physiological increases rather than pathological diagnoses.

    Caution

    It is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to accurately interpret your ceruloplasmin test results. Levels can be influenced by various factors, including pregnancy, oral contraceptive use, acute or chronic inflammatory conditions, and certain medications. A normal ceruloplasmin level does not definitively rule out Wilson's disease; therefore, serum copper should often be measured in addition. This test is typically part of a broader diagnostic evaluation, and your doctor will consider your complete medical history and other laboratory findings to provide an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

    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