Ceruloplasmin

The Ceruloplasmin test contains 1 test with 1 biomarker.

Brief Description: The Ceruloplasmin test is a laboratory test that measures the levels of ceruloplasmin in the blood. Ceruloplasmin is a copper-binding protein produced by the liver and plays a crucial role in copper transport and metabolism.

Also Known As: Copper Oxide Test, Wilson’s Disease Test

Collection Method: Blood Draw

Specimen Type: Serum

Test Preparation: No preparation required

When is a Ceruloplasmin test ordered?

A Ceruloplasmin test may be ordered in the following situations:

1. Assessment of Wilson's Disease: Wilson's disease is a genetic disorder characterized by impaired copper metabolism, leading to copper accumulation in various organs, primarily the liver and brain. The Ceruloplasmin test is a valuable diagnostic tool for evaluating Wilson's disease.

2. Evaluation of Copper Deficiency or Toxicity: The test can help determine if an individual has abnormally low or high levels of copper, which may indicate copper deficiency or copper toxicity, respectively.

3. Monitoring Treatment for Wilson's Disease: For individuals with Wilson's disease undergoing treatment, regular monitoring of ceruloplasmin levels can help assess treatment efficacy and ensure adequate copper control.

What does a Ceruloplasmin blood test check for?

Ceruloplasmin is a copper-containing enzyme that aids in iron metabolism in the body. The level of ceruloplasmin in the blood is measured with this test.

Copper is a vital mineral that regulates iron metabolism, connective tissue creation, cellular energy production, and nervous system function. The intestines absorb it from meals and liquids, and it is subsequently transferred to the liver, where it is stored or used to make a variety of enzymes.

To make ceruloplasmin, the liver binds copper to a protein and then releases it into the bloodstream. Ceruloplasmin binds about 95 percent of the copper in the blood. As a result, the ceruloplasmin test can be performed in conjunction with one or more copper tests to assist diagnose Wilson disease, a genetic illness in which the liver, brain, and other organs store too much copper.

Lab tests often ordered with a Ceruloplasmin test:

When a Ceruloplasmin test is ordered, several other tests are often conducted alongside it to provide a comprehensive assessment of copper metabolism and related health issues. Here’s an explanation of these tests:

1. Copper:

   • Purpose: Measures the total amount of copper in the blood.
   • Why Is It Ordered: To assess the overall copper status in conjunction with ceruloplasmin levels. In Wilson's disease, total copper levels might be low, but free copper (copper not bound to ceruloplasmin) may be high.

2. 24-Hour Urinary Copper:

   • Purpose: Measures the amount of copper excreted in urine over a 24-hour period.
   • Why Is It Ordered: Elevated urinary copper excretion is a hallmark of Wilson's disease, and this test is useful for both diagnosis and monitoring of treatment.

3. Liver Function Test:

   • Purpose: To assess liver health.
   • Why Is It Ordered: Wilson's disease can lead to liver dysfunction; liver function tests help evaluate the extent of liver damage and monitor treatment efficacy.

4. Complete Blood Count (CBC):

   • Purpose: Provides a broad picture of overall blood health.
   • Why Is It Ordered: To identify any underlying issues such as anemia, which can sometimes be associated with Wilson's disease.

5. Iron Studies:

   • Purpose: To assess iron status in the body.
   • Why Is It Ordered: Copper and iron metabolism can be interconnected, and Wilson's disease can sometimes affect iron parameters.

6. Kidney Function Test:

   • Purpose: To evaluate kidney function.
   • Why Is It Ordered: To assess overall health and the potential impact of copper accumulation on kidney function.

These tests, when ordered alongside a Ceruloplasmin test, provide a comprehensive view of the body’s copper metabolism, liver function, and overall health. They are crucial in diagnosing and managing conditions related to copper imbalance, such as Wilson's disease, and assessing the impact of these conditions on various organs. The specific combination of tests will depend on the individual's symptoms, medical history, and initial test results.

Conditions where a Ceruloplasmin test is recommended:

A Ceruloplasmin test may be helpful in diagnosing and managing the following conditions or diseases:

1. Wilson's Disease: Wilson's disease, an inherited disorder, requires a Ceruloplasmin test for diagnosis and monitoring of treatment effectiveness.

2. Copper Deficiency or Toxicity: Ceruloplasmin levels can help determine if an individual has abnormally low or high copper levels, indicating copper deficiency or toxicity, respectively.

3. Inflammatory Conditions or Cancers: Elevated ceruloplasmin levels can sometimes be associated with inflammation, certain cancers (e.g., Hodgkin's lymphoma), and other conditions.

How does my healthcare provider use a Ceruloplasmin test?

Healthcare providers use the results of the Ceruloplasmin test to:

1. Diagnose Wilson's Disease: Low ceruloplasmin levels, along with other clinical and laboratory findings, aid in the diagnosis of Wilson's disease.

2. Evaluate Copper Status: Ceruloplasmin levels, combined with serum copper levels, assist in assessing copper metabolism and identifying copper deficiency or toxicity.

3. Monitor Treatment and Disease Progression: Serial monitoring of ceruloplasmin levels helps healthcare providers evaluate the effectiveness of treatment for Wilson's disease and monitor disease progression.

It is important to interpret the Ceruloplasmin test results in the context of the patient's clinical presentation, medical history, and other relevant laboratory findings to establish an accurate diagnosis and guide appropriate management decisions.

What do my Ceruloplasmin test results mean?

Ceruloplasmin levels are frequently tested in conjunction with copper testing because they are not indicative of a specific illness.

Wilson disease can be identified by low ceruloplasmin and blood copper levels, as well as high copper levels in the urine.

About 5% of persons with Wilson disease who have neurological symptoms, as well as up to 40% of those with hepatic symptoms, especially if they are critically unwell, will have normal ceruloplasmin levels.

The person tested may have a copper deficiency if ceruloplasmin, urine, and/or blood copper values are low.

Anything that affects the body's ability to metabolize copper or the supply of copper has the potential to impact blood ceruloplasmin and copper levels.

Most Common Questions About the Ceruloplasmin test:

Understanding the Ceruloplasmin Test and Its Purpose

What is the Ceruloplasmin test?

The Ceruloplasmin test is a blood test used to measure the level of ceruloplasmin, a copper-carrying protein, in your body. Ceruloplasmin is produced in the liver and plays an essential role in the transport of copper in the bloodstream.

Why would a doctor order a Ceruloplasmin test?

A doctor may order a Ceruloplasmin test if you are showing signs of copper deficiency or overload, such as fatigue, difficulty walking, or jaundice. It is also used in diagnosing Wilson's disease, a rare inherited disorder that results in excessive copper storage in the body.

Who might need a Ceruloplasmin test?

Anyone showing symptoms of copper deficiency or overload might need a Ceruloplasmin test. It might also be used for individuals with a family history of Wilson's disease or those with unexplained neurological symptoms.

Interpreting Test Results and Abnormal Findings

What do the results of a Ceruloplasmin test mean?

Ceruloplasmin levels are usually given in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). The normal range varies by age and sex. Decreased ceruloplasmin levels may suggest Wilson's disease or Menkes disease, while increased levels can be seen in conditions causing acute or chronic inflammation, pregnancy, oral contraceptive use, or lymphoma.

What does a high Ceruloplasmin test result indicate?

A high Ceruloplasmin test result can be seen in conditions causing acute or chronic inflammation, certain cancers such as lymphoma, pregnancy, and oral contraceptive use. It does not typically indicate a problem with copper metabolism.

What does a low Ceruloplasmin test result mean?

A low Ceruloplasmin test result might indicate Wilson's disease, a condition causing excessive copper storage in the body, or Menkes disease, a rare inherited disorder that impairs copper absorption and distribution.

Relationship with Other Tests and Conditions

How does the Ceruloplasmin test relate to the copper test?

The Ceruloplasmin test and the copper test often go hand in hand. As ceruloplasmin carries copper in the blood, abnormalities in ceruloplasmin levels can impact copper levels. However, they measure different aspects of copper metabolism and are both useful in diagnosing conditions like Wilson's disease.

Can the Ceruloplasmin test diagnose Wilson's disease?

While the Ceruloplasmin test can suggest Wilson's disease if the levels are low, it is not definitive. Additional tests, like a copper test or a liver biopsy, may be needed for a definitive diagnosis.

Understanding the Implications and Health Impact

What role does ceruloplasmin play in the body?

Ceruloplasmin is primarily responsible for carrying copper in the blood. It also functions as an enzyme, playing a role in various biochemical reactions, and has antioxidant properties.

What health conditions can be associated with abnormal Ceruloplasmin levels?

Abnormal Ceruloplasmin levels can be associated with Wilson's disease, Menkes disease, liver disease, malnutrition, and conditions causing chronic or acute inflammation.

Risk Factors, Prevention, and Treatment

What factors might influence my Ceruloplasmin levels?

Several factors can influence Ceruloplasmin levels, including age, sex, pregnancy, use of oral contraceptives, underlying inflammatory conditions, and certain genetic disorders like Wilson's disease or Menkes disease.

How can I maintain or improve my Ceruloplasmin levels?

Your Ceruloplasmin levels are mainly regulated by your body based on its need for copper. However, maintaining a balanced diet with adequate copper intake, and managing any underlying conditions, can help maintain healthy levels.

What treatment options exist for abnormal Ceruloplasmin levels?

Treatment options for abnormal Ceruloplasmin levels depend on the underlying cause. For Wilson's disease, treatment usually involves medications to reduce copper levels, and in severe cases, liver transplantation. Management of underlying conditions causing inflammation can also help normalize ceruloplasmin levels.

We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.