COPPER

The copper test measures the level of copper in the blood, urine, or tissues. Copper is an essential trace element involved in various physiological processes, including iron metabolism, antioxidant defense, and connective tissue formation. Abnormal copper levels can indicate conditions such as Wilson’s disease, a genetic disorder that causes excessive copper accumulation in the body, or Menkes disease, a genetic disorder that results in copper deficiency. The copper test is essential for diagnosing and monitoring these conditions, guiding treatment decisions, and ensuring proper copper metabolism.