Copper, 24 Hour Urine Test

Use:
This test is a measurement of the metal copper excreted in a 24 hour urine collection. Increased urinary copper excretion may occur in Wilson disease or with chronic active hepatitis; Wilson disease and chronic active hepatitis may resemble one another; thus, parameters in addition to urinary copper excretion, such as ceruloplasmin and serum copper, are needed to fully evaluate and differentiate these conditions.

Copper is an important element in those whose metabolism is hampered in the genetic disease Wilson’s. Excess copper gets stored in the body tissues causing damage to the nervous system, kidneys and eyes.

Copper poisoning through chronic exposure is rare in the general population, excepting individuals with Wilson disease. Copper poisoning through chronic inhalation of copper fumes and/or dusts that are typically associated with industry may produce symptoms of nausea, vomiting, nervous manifestations, and an enlarged liver(hepatomegaly). Overexposure to copper is generally associated with industry through the inhalation of copper dust and/or fumes that arise in operations involving copper (eg, metallurgy, copper plating, soldering).

Recommended For:
Diagnosing and monitoring therapy for Wilson’s disease, epilepsy work-up.

Special Notes:
This test is a 24 hour collection of urine. Therefore you must pick up collection container at your local Client Service Center. This address may be found by using our “Locator” map upon checkout.

In order to collect a 24 Hour Urine specimen you begin by voiding(urinating) at 8am. This specimen is then discarded. Then begin to collect all urine including the final specimen voided at the end of the 24-hour collection period (ie, 8 AM the next morning). Make sure to screw the lid of the collecting container on securely and return it to the same Client Service Center.

Tests Included:
Copper, 24 Hour Urine – TC – 365

Estimated Turn Around For Results:
2-10 Business Days
For an exact turnaround time for results, please contact us at Personalabs and we will contact the lab on your behalf as turnaround times vary depending on testing location or lab testing provider.