Preferred Minimum: 0.8 mL serum from Royal Blue top serum, no additive tube.

Specimens collected in containers other than specified. Specimens transported in containers other than specified.

1-3 days upon receipt at reference laboratory

0-2 months: 40-140 mcg/dL

3-6 months: 40-160 mcg/dL

7-9 months: 40-170 mcg/dL

10-12 months: 80-170 mcg/dL

13 months-10 years: 80-180 mcg/dL

11-17 years: 75-145 mcg/dL

Males:

> or =18 years: 73-129 mcg/dL

Females:

> or =18 years: 77-206 mcg/dL

Serum copper below the normal range is associated with Wilson disease, as well as a variety of other clinical situations (see Clinical Information). Excess use of denture cream containing zinc can cause hypocupremia.

Serum concentrations above the normal range are seen in primary biliary cirrhosis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, and a variety of other clinical situations (see Clinical Information).

Quantitative Inductively Coupled Plasma/Mass Spectrometry

Separate from cells ASAP or within 2 hours of collection.

Diet, medication, and nutritional supplements may introduce interfering substances. Patients should be encouraged to discontinue nutritional supplements, vitamins, minerals, nonessential over-the-counter medications (upon the advice of their physician).

Royal Blue K2 EDTA tubes are available from Specimen Control, 6240 RCP.