Ceruloplasmin - SDL

Test Information

Name: Ceruloplasmin

Code: 50

Sample Type: Serum (Chem)

Turnaround Time (TAT): 9 days

Preparation & Notes

1.0 mL Serum. (Minimum required: 0.5 mL). Keep sample refrigerated. Draw blood in a red-top tube. Spin down and send serum in a plastic tube. Note: Useful for the diagnosis of Wilson's disease. Copper bound to ceruloplasmin constitutes the largest (95%) amount of copper in the circulation. Ceruloplasmin is not only a copper transporter but also functions as ferroxidase, converting Fe2+ to Fe3+. In Wilson's disease, copper mobilization from the liver is drastically reduced because of the low production of ceruloplasmin. Ceruloplasmin is itself affected by infections (a late acute-phase reactant) and liver function. Birth control pills increase ceruloplasmin, as does pregnancy.