Ceruloplasmin
Copper transport protein made by the liver that carries most of the copper in the blood
Also known as
Definition
Ceruloplasmin is a protein the liver makes by attaching copper to a protein. It is released into the blood and carries copper to the tissues that need it. Normally, most of the copper in the blood is bound to ceruloplasmin. The test is usually done together with copper in blood and/or urine, mainly for questions about copper metabolism, for example when Wilson disease is suspected.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Unit | mg/dL (g/L) |
| Reference Range | Adults: typically 20–40 mg/dL (0.20–0.40 g/L). Labs may differ; the reference range in your own report is what counts. Discuss your results with your doctor. |
Agree on your personal target range with your doctor.
1 mg/dL equals 0.01 g/L or 10 mg/L.
↓ What a low value means
Low levels may be linked to the body not being able to use copper properly. Possible associations according to MedlinePlus: Wilson disease (a rare inherited disorder of copper excretion; the value can also be normal in this condition), Menkes syndrome, chronic or severe liver disease, kidney diseases such as nephrotic syndrome, and copper deficiency due to malnutrition or malabsorption, for example in celiac disease. Very high zinc intake from supplements can also impair copper use. A single value is not a diagnosis; discuss deviations with your doctor.
↑ What a high value means
Ceruloplasmin rises with infection, inflammation and injury. Higher levels may also be linked to heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis, an overactive thyroid or certain cancers such as lymphoma. Often they are not a sign of disease: pregnancy, birth control pills and estrogen preparations, for example during menopause, can also raise the value. A high-copper diet is rarely the cause. Interpretation is up to your doctor.
When to test
No special preparation is needed. The test is usually ordered when symptoms or findings point to a copper metabolism disorder, with a family history of Wilson disease even without symptoms, and to monitor known copper disorders. It is generally combined with copper in blood and/or urine.
Frequently asked questions
Can ceruloplasmin alone lead to a diagnosis? +
No. The value is always read together with other findings, especially copper in blood and urine, plus symptoms, medical history and family history. In Wilson disease, ceruloplasmin can even be within the normal range.
Why can birth control pills or pregnancy change the value? +
Estrogen-containing preparations, such as birth control pills or hormone therapy during menopause, as well as pregnancy can raise ceruloplasmin. Mention such factors when your blood is drawn so your result can be interpreted correctly.
What does zinc have to do with ceruloplasmin? +
Very large amounts of zinc from supplements can affect how well the body uses copper. A low ceruloplasmin value can therefore be related to high zinc intake. Whether this plays a role in your case is something to clarify with your doctor.
Do I need to fast for the test? +
According to MedlinePlus, no special preparation is needed. If other values are measured from the same blood draw, ask whether your lab has specific requirements for them.
Ceruloplasmin
Sources
Last updated: October 05, 2026
This information is for orientation only and does not replace medical advice. Reference ranges can vary by laboratory, method and country.