Copper

Message

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Laboratory developed test (LDT) This test was developed and its performance characteristics have been determined by Quest Diagnostics Nichols Institute, Chantilly, VA. Performance characteristics refer to the analytical performance of the test.

Test Code

COPPER

Alias/See Also

363;
CU (plasma)

CPT Codes
82525

Preferred Specimen

2 mL plasma collected in an EDTA royal blue-top tube

Minimum Volume

0.7 mL

Other Acceptable Specimens

Serum collected in: No additive (royal blue-top) tube

Instructions

Separate plasma from cells within two hours. Transfer separated plasma to a plastic acid washed or metal-free vial.

Transport Container

Acid washed or metal-free vial

Transport Temperature

Room temperature

Specimen Stability

Room temperature: 5 days
Refrigerated: 10 days
Frozen: 30 days

Reject Criteria (Eg, hemolysis? Lipemia? Thaw/Other?)

Hemolysis. Serum or plasma NOT separated from cells. Samples submitted in non-trace metal or non-acid washed containers.

Methodology
Inductively Coupled Plasma/Mass Spectrometry (ICP/MS)

FDA Status
This test was developed and its analytical performance characteristics have been determined by Quest Diagnostics. It has not been cleared or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. This assay has been validated pursuant to the CLIA regulations and is used for clinical purposes.

Setup Schedule

Set up: Daily; Report available: 1-2 days

Clinical Significance

Copper is an essential element that is a cofactor of many enzymes. Copper metabolism is disturbed in Wilson's disease, Menkes disease, primary biliary cirrhosis, and Indian childhood cirrhosis. Copper concentrations increase in acute phase reactions and during the third trimester of pregnancy. Copper concentrations are decreased with nephrosis, malabsorption, and malnutrition. Copper concentrations are also useful to monitor patients, especially preterm newborns, on nutritional supplementation. Results of copper are often interpreted together with ceruloplasmin.

Performing Laboratory
Quest Diagnostics Nichols Institute
14225 Newbrook Drive
Chantilly, VA 20153

The CPT Codes provided in this document are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed. Any Profile/panel component may be ordered separately. Reflex tests are performed at an additional charge.