How the Test is Performed

A blood sample is needed. For information on how this is done, see: Venipuncture.

How to Prepare for the Test

No fasting or other preparation is usually needed.

How the Test Will Feel

When the needle is inserted to draw blood, you may feel moderate pain, or only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.

Why the Test is Performed

Your health care provider may order this test if you have signs or symptoms of a copper metabolism or copper storage disorder.

Normal Results

Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.

What Abnormal Results Mean

Lower-than-normal ceruloplasmin levels:

• Chronic liver disease
• Intestinal malabsorption
• Malnutrition
• Menkes' syndrome (Menkes' kinky hair syndrome) -- very rare
• Nephrotic syndrome
• Wilson's copper storage disease (rare)

Higher-than-normal ceruloplasmin levels:

• Acute and chronic infections
• Lymphoma
• Pregnancy
• Rheumatoid arthritis

Risks

Veins and arteries vary in size from one patient to another and from one side of the body to the other. Obtaining a blood sample from some people may be more difficult than from others.

Other risks associated with having blood drawn are slight but may include:

• Excessive bleeding
• Fainting or feeling light-headed
• Hematoma (blood accumulating under the skin)
• Infection (a slight risk any time the skin is broken)

References

Kowdley KV. Inherited and metabolic hepatic disorders. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 154.

Cox DW, Roberts EA. Wilson disease. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ, eds. Sleisenger and Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 9th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier;2010:chap 75.

Update Date: 2/21/2012

Reviewed by: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.