Description
Ceruloplasmin is also known as ferroxidase or iron(II):oxygen oxidoreductase. It is the major copper-carrying protein in the blood, and in addition plays a role in iron metabolism.
Ceruloplasmin concentration test is primarily ordered along with blood and/or urine copper tests to help diagnose Wilson's disease, an inherited disorder associated with decreased levels of ceruloplasmin and excess storage of copper in the liver, brain, and other organs. Also it may be ordered to help diagnose or differentiate between conditions associated with copper deficiencies.
Its concentration is measured by means of analysis of a blood sample drawn from the vein in the arm.
Purpose of the test
It is ordered along with copper tests in front of signs and symptoms that the doctor suspects may be due to Wilson's disease such as:
- anemia
- nausea, abdominal pain
- jaundice
- fatigue
- behavioral changes
- tremors
- difficulty walking and/or swallowing
- dystonia
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Rarely, ceruloplasmin may also be ordered along with copper tests when your doctor suspects that you have a copper deficiency and periodically if monitoring is recommended.
Reference range values
0-17 years: 0,22-0,43 g/L
18 years and older: 0,17-0,54 g/L
Abnormal findings
Low ceruloplasmin levels are not diagnostic of a specific condition and are usually evaluated along with copper tests.
If ceruloplasmin and blood copper concentrations are decreased, urine copper levels are increased, then the patient may have Wilson's disease.
If ceruloplasmin and urine and/or blood copper concentrations are low, then the patient may have a copper deficiency.
Anything that interferes with the supply of copper or with the body's ability to metabolize copper has the potential to affect blood ceruloplasmin and copper concentrations.