Serum copper refers to the concentration of copper ions (Cu²⁺) in the liquid component of blood. Copper is an essential trace element that plays important roles in various physiological processes in the body. Read More
Copper serves as a cofactor for several enzymes involved in energy production, iron metabolism, connective tissue formation, and neurotransmitter synthesis.
It aids in the absorption, transport, and utilization of iron.
Copper is involved in the function of antioxidant enzymes that protect cells from oxidative damage.
It plays a role in the formation of connective tissue, such as collagen and elastin.
the body absorbs copper from the intestines, makes it non-toxic by binding it to a protein, and transports it to the liver. The liver stores some of the copper and binds most of the rest to a protein called apocaeruloplasmin that, when copper is attached, becomes the enzyme caeruloplasmin. About 95% of the copper in the blood is bound to caeruloplasmin. The liver excretes excess copper into the bile and it is removed from the body in the stool. Some copper is also excreted in the urine.
Anemia
Fatigue
Decreased white blood cell count
Osteoporosis or nerve damage
Muscle weakness and impaired coordination
Numbness or tingling in the limbs
Irritability and depression
Confusion
Hair with less pigment than normal(The gradual appearance of gray hair.)
Increase consumption of copper-rich foods, such as: Organ meats: Liver (especially beef liver), kidneys. Shellfish: Oysters, crab, lobster. Nuts and seeds: Cashews, almonds, sesame seeds. Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, beans. Whole grains: Wheat bran, oats, barley. Dark chocolate and cocoa powder. Leafy greens: Spinach, kale, Swiss chard. Avocado, potatoes (especially with skin), mushrooms.
Not consuming enough copper Celiac disease Surgeries affecting the digestive tract Consuming too much zinc, as zinc competes with copper to be absorbed Menkes disease, a genetic disorder of copper deficiency involving a wide variety of symptoms that is often fatal Severe malabsorption (as in sprue or cystic fibrosis) Bariatric surgery (where vitamin B12 deficiency may also be present)
Wilson's disease, a liver condition in which excess copper does not leave the body as normal and results in liver damage from accumulation Nausea Vomiting Diarrhea Kidney damage Liver damage/cirrhosis Anemia from red blood cells rupturing
consuming copper-rich food or taking copper dietary supplements. Exposure to high levels of copper through contaminated food and water. Genetic disorders like Wilson’s disease. Ingesting copper from acidic beverages or food stored in copper containers. Widespread use of oral contraceptives containing estrogen
Serum Ceruloplasmin Test: Ceruloplasmin is a protein that carries copper in the blood. This test measures the level of ceruloplasmin, which can indicate overall copper status in the body. Urinary Copper Test: Measures the amount of copper excreted in the urine. Elevated levels may indicate copper overload or toxicity. Liver Function Tests: Assess liver health and function, which is crucial as the liver plays a key role in copper metabolism and storage.
It will take several hours to get the result
