Copper, Urine

The Copper, Urine test measures the amount of copper in the urine sample. Copper is an essential trace element that plays a critical role in various bodily functions, including the formation of red blood cells, energy production, maintenance of healthy bones, nerves, and immune system. Copper enters the body primarily through food sources, such as shellfish, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.

The Copper, Urine test is used to identify copper toxicity (excess copper) or deficiency in the body. It may be advised when there are symptoms indicative of a copper imbalance, such as fatigue, weakness, frequent infections, skin changes, hair loss, or neurological symptoms like numbness or tingling in hands and legs. This test is particularly relevant for individuals with conditions such as Wilson's disease, a genetic disorder that leads to copper buildup in the body, or Menkes disease, which results in copper deficiency.

Additionally, it is also useful for monitoring copper levels in individuals undergoing treatment for conditions that impact copper absorption or excretion, such as gastrointestinal disorders. This test is done by a highly specialised Mass Spectrometric technique (ICP-MS) that can measure elements at trace levels in body fluids.

Please note: This is an outsourced test. The sample for this test is collected by TATA 1MG and processed at a NABL accredited partnered lab.