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Ceruloplasmin
Formal name: Ceruloplasmin Related tests: Copper
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The Test Sample
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What is being tested?This test measures the amount of ceruloplasmin in the blood. Ceruloplasmin is a copper-containing enzyme that plays a role in the body’s iron metabolism. Copper is an essential mineral that is absorbed into the body through diet. It is absorbed in the intestines and then transported to the liver, where it is stored or used in the production of a variety of enzymes. The liver binds copper to apoceruloplasmin to produce ceruloplasmin and then releases it into the bloodstream. About 95% of the copper in the blood is bound to ceruloplasmin. Because of this, the ceruloplasmin test can be used along with one or more copper tests to help diagnose Wilson’s disease and evaluate copper metabolism.
How is the sample collected for testing?
A blood sample is obtained by inserting a needle into a vein in the arm.
NOTE: If undergoing medical tests makes you or someone you care for anxious, embarrassed, or even difficult to manage, you might consider reading one or more of the following articles: Coping with Test Pain, Discomfort, and Anxiety, Tips on Blood Testing, Tips to Help Children through Their Medical Tests, and Tips to Help the Elderly through Their Medical Tests.
Another article, Follow That Sample, provides a glimpse at the collection and processing of a blood sample and throat culture.
Is any test preparation needed to ensure the quality of the sample?
No test preparation is needed.
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This article was last reviewed on
November 6, 2007.
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