Ceruloplasmin blood test in Chiswick

What the test measures

Ceruloplasmin is made in the liver and carries most of the copper circulating in the blood. Copper is an essential trace mineral that supports energy production, iron metabolism, the nervous system, connective tissue and immune function. Ceruloplasmin also helps release iron from storage so it can be used to make red blood cells.

Low ceruloplasmin is a key feature of Wilson disease, an inherited condition in which copper builds up in the liver, brain and eyes. It can also be low in copper deficiency, which may follow weight loss surgery, malabsorption or high zinc supplement use, and in severe liver disease or protein loss. Higher levels are seen with inflammation, pregnancy and oestrogen-containing medicines, because ceruloplasmin rises as part of the body's response to illness.

The price includes the blood sample at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a practitioner review of your result and a GP feedback report on request.

Who it is for

• Your liver tests are abnormal without a clear cause, particularly if you are under 40.
• You have had weight loss surgery or take high-dose zinc supplements.
• You have unexplained anaemia, low white cell counts or numbness and balance problems.
• A brother or sister has been diagnosed with Wilson disease.
• Your GP or practitioner has asked for copper studies.

Understanding your result

Your report shows the laboratory reference range. A low result can suggest Wilson disease or copper deficiency, and your practitioner will look at it with blood copper, liver tests and your history. Wilson disease is confirmed by a specialist using further tests such as urine copper and an eye examination. A raised result is usually due to inflammation, pregnancy or oestrogen and is rarely a concern by itself, though it can sometimes hide a low level.

A result outside the range is a prompt for discussion, not a diagnosis, and any suggestion of Wilson disease should be followed up promptly with your GP.

Preparing for your test

No fasting is usually needed. Try to test when you are well rather than during an infection, as inflammation can raise the level. Please tell us if you are pregnant, take the contraceptive pill or hormone replacement therapy, or take zinc or copper supplements.

Because Wilson disease and copper problems often show first in the liver, our liver function tests pair well with this test, and a full blood count checks for related anaemia. Browse every blood test and price in Chiswick.

Questions

How much is a ceruloplasmin test in Chiswick?

The Ceruloplasmin test costs £169 at our Chiswick clinic. This includes the blood sample, accredited laboratory analysis, a practitioner review and a GP feedback report on request.

Is ceruloplasmin the same as a copper test?

No. It measures the protein that carries copper. Blood copper itself is a separate measurement, and the two are often read together.

Does a low result mean I have Wilson disease?

Not necessarily. Copper deficiency and liver or kidney conditions can also lower it. A specialist would use further tests to confirm Wilson disease.

Can supplements affect ceruloplasmin?

Yes. Taking high-dose zinc for a long time can reduce copper absorption and lower ceruloplasmin, so tell us about any supplements.