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Copper (Cu) - Cu

What does the Copper (Cu) - Cu blood test mean? Get a free analysis of your blood test now. Here's what you get with our free analysis:

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Copper is an essential trace mineral vital for various bodily functions, including iron metabolism, connective tissue formation, and energy production. It's also crucial for maintaining a healthy nervous system and immune function. The copper test measures the amount of copper in your blood to assess nutritional status, detect copper deficiency or excess, and diagnose certain disorders like Wilson's disease or Menkes syndrome. This test is often part of a comprehensive metabolic panel or ordered separately when copper-related issues are suspected.

Acceptable Range:   70 to 155
Ideal for Women:   80-155
Ideal for Men:   70-140
Ideal for Girls:   80-155
Ideal for Boys:   70-140
Test Method: blood

What do readings below 70 µg/dL for Copper (Cu) - Cu mean?

A low copper level may indicate:

  1. Copper deficiency, which can lead to anemia, neutropenia, and bone abnormalities
  2. Malnutrition or malabsorption disorders
  3. Excessive zinc supplementation, which can interfere with copper absorption
  4. Menkes syndrome, a rare genetic disorder affecting copper metabolism
  5. Certain kidney disorders or nephrotic syndrome

Low copper levels can impair various bodily functions and may require dietary changes, supplementation, or further investigation to identify underlying causes.

What do readings above 155 µg/dL for Copper (Cu) - Cu mean?

An elevated copper level may suggest:

  1. Wilson’s disease, a genetic disorder causing copper accumulation in tissues
  2. Acute or chronic liver disease
  3. Biliary tract obstruction
  4. Certain types of anemia, such as hemolytic anemia
  5. Infections or inflammatory conditions
  6. Oral contraceptive use or pregnancy
  7. Copper poisoning or excessive supplementation

High copper levels can be toxic and may lead to liver damage, neurological symptoms, or other health issues. Further testing and medical evaluation are necessary to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

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