Copper Blood

Copper is an essential element that is a cofactor of many enzymes. Copper metabolism is distributed in Wilson’s disease, Menkes disease, primary biliary cirrhosis, and Indian childhood cirrhosis. Copper concentrations increase in acute phase reactions. Copper concentrations are useful to monitor patients, especially preterm newborns, on nutritional supplementation.

Copper is a vital mineral that is needed for essential functions in the body. Copper is required in the body for the production of most enzymes. These enzymes are specifically important in iron metabolism and in the formation of connective tissue. Copper gets in the body via diet or supplements. It can be found in chocolate, mushrooms, whole grains and nuts. This test is used to detect copper storage disorders, such as Wilsons disease, which can cause stores of copper to accumulate in the brain and liver.

This test is performed in following conditions such as:

• Anemia
• Nausea, abdominal pain
• Jaundice
• Fatigue
• Behavioral changes
• Difficulty walking and/or swallowing
• Dystonia

Also Known As: Cu Plasma or Serum