Copper , Serum (CU)

Price: 8 د.ا

The Copper, Serum (CU) test measures the level of copper in your blood to assess your nutritional status and detect possible health conditions related to copper metabolism.

Normal Range

• Females: 80–155 μg/dL
• Males: 70–140 μg/dL
• Children: 20–70 μg/dL

Function in the Body

Copper is an essential trace element that plays a vital role in various physiological processes, including:

• Formation of Red Blood Cells: Essential for proper hematopoiesis.
• Iron Absorption and Utilization: Supports iron metabolism.
• Development of Connective Tissue, Bones, and the Nervous System: Crucial for structural integrity and neural function.
• Antioxidant Defense: Helps neutralize free radicals.
• Enzyme Activity: Involved in energy production and neurotransmitter synthesis.

Diseases Revealed by the Test

• Wilson’s Disease: A genetic disorder causing copper accumulation in the liver, brain, and other organs.
• Menkes Disease: A rare genetic condition leading to poor copper absorption.
• Copper Deficiency: Associated with anemia, neutropenia, and osteoporosis.
• Copper Toxicity: Often caused by environmental exposure or excessive supplementation.
• Liver and Kidney Disorders: As these organs play a role in copper metabolism, abnormalities may indicate dysfunction.

Symptoms

Low Copper Levels

• Fatigue
• Frequent infections
• Anemia
• Brittle bones
• Neurological symptoms (numbness, difficulty walking)

High Copper Levels

• Nausea, vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Jaundice
• Organ damage (in severe cases)

Symptoms of Deficiency and Overdose

• Deficiency Symptoms:
  • Anemia
  • Weakness and fatigue
  • Loss of skin pigmentation
  • Neurological issues (tremors, unsteady gait)
• Overdose Symptoms:
  • Gastrointestinal distress (nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain)
  • Liver damage
  • Neurological symptoms (confusion, irritability)
  • Kidney failure in extreme cases

Diagnosis

The Copper, Serum (CU) test involves taking a blood sample to measure copper concentration. Results help diagnose or monitor conditions such as:

• Nutritional deficiencies
• Wilson’s or Menkes disease
• Toxicity due to overexposure to copper

Additional tests, such as ceruloplasmin levels and 24-hour urine copper tests, may be ordered for a more comprehensive assessment of copper status.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is the Copper, Serum test performed?
   It helps evaluate copper levels to detect deficiencies or toxicities and diagnose conditions affecting copper metabolism.
2. Do I need to fast before the test?
   No, fasting is not typically required for this test; however, follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.
3. What factors can affect copper levels?
   Certain medications, pregnancy, inflammation, and nutritional status can influence copper levels.
4. How is copper deficiency treated?
   Treatment usually involves dietary adjustments and copper supplementation under medical supervision.
5. What foods are rich in copper?
   Foods like liver, shellfish, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and dark leafy greens are excellent sources of copper.
6. Can high copper levels be harmful?
   Yes, chronic high copper levels can cause toxicity, leading to severe health issues such as liver and kidney damage.

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