Copper

Copper testing is one of the services offered at IntroLab in Belgrade. This test helps in diagnosing and monitoring Wilson’s disease and other disorders that can result in abnormal copper levels in the body.

What is copper?

Copper is a vital mineral in the human body, playing a crucial role in the function of various enzymes. These enzymes are essential for:

• Controlling iron metabolism
• Forming connective tissue
• Generating energy at the cellular level
• Producing melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color
• Supporting the nervous system

Importance of copper testing

Copper testing is recommended for individuals showing signs and symptoms associated with Wilson’s disease (often along with ceruloplasmin testing). It is also advised for those with known high or low copper levels to monitor the effectiveness of their therapy.

Test results

Low copper levels can be associated with various health conditions, including Wilson’s disease, malnutrition, low protein levels in the blood (hypoproteinemia), nutrient absorption issues (malabsorption), nephrotic syndrome, and Menkes disease. Excessive use of zinc-containing toothpaste can also lead to low copper levels.

Elevated levels in the blood, known as hypercupremia, often occur in certain health conditions. These include primary biliary cirrhosis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, hemochromatosis, malignancies such as leukemia, thyrotoxicosis, and various infections.

Copper levels may also be elevated in patients taking oral contraceptives and in women during pregnancy. Therefore, a blood test can sometimes be used to help confirm pregnancy.