Copper - Intracellular

Why this test?
Copper is an essential trace element that plays an important role in energy metabolism, connective tissue formation, immune system function and nervous system development. A deficiency can lead to fatigue, anemia, impaired immunity and neurological symptoms such as tingling or muscle weakness. An excess of copper, on the other hand, can be harmful to liver and nerves.

Why intracellular measurement?
A lot of copper is in the cells, not in the blood plasma. Therefore, an intracellular measurement (in red blood cells) gives a more reliable picture of the actual copper status in the body than a standard blood serum determination.

For whom is this test suitable?
This test is recommended for:

• Fatigue, concentration problems or neurological complaints
• Unexplained anemia
• Suspected copper deficiency due to malabsorption, gastrointestinal problems or after gastric bypass surgery
• When using high doses of zinc (can lower copper)
• To check for suspected copper accumulation (Wilson's disease, under specialist supervision)

What is measured?

Copper intracellular (in red blood cells, RBC)

note: you cannot calculate Free Copper with this value

Intracellular copper (RBC) gives a picture of the functional stock in the cells, not the circulating copper in serum. Free copper deals precisely with the fraction in serum that is not bound to ceruloplasmin, and that is the fraction that can become toxic in, for example, Wilson's disease. Therefore, intracellular value and ceruloplasmin cannot be combined for this calculation.

So for Wilson's disease, you need this test: https://www.bloodtesting.nl/vrij-koper-ziekte-van-wilson.html

Why test copper and zinc together?

Copper and zinc are closely related. They act as each other's counterparts in the body:

Too much zinc (for example, from supplements) can lead to copper deficiency, because zinc inhibits the absorption of copper.

Too much copper can actually interfere with zinc absorption.

Both minerals are important for energy, resistance, skin and hair, and for the production of neurotransmitters that affect mood and concentration.

By measuring both copper and zinc at the same time, you not only gain insight into the individual values, but also into the balance between these two minerals. This makes the results more reliable and prevents an imbalance from being overlooked.

Common complaints with an imbalance between copper and zinc are:

Fatigue and concentration problems

Hair loss and skin complaints

Reduced resistance

Mood swings, anxiety or gloominess

Tip: It is often more efficient to have copper and zinc measured directly together, so you don't have to schedule a second blood draw later.

Preparation

No special preparation is required

Blood sampling can be done at more than 1000 locations in the Netherlands

Important to know
If anything abnormal is found that may require immediate medical follow-up, you will always be called by a physician or medical professional first.