Ceruloplasmin is the main transport protein for copper in the blood. In addition the protein exhibits enzymatic activity as an oxidase for various substrates.

• In Wilson’s disease and Menke’s syndrome (hereditary disorders of copper metabolism), the serum ceruloplasmin levels are markedly diminished, especially in homozygotes.
• Low levels of ceruloplasmin also occur in patients with hepatic insufficiency and protein loss syndrome.
• High serum and plasma levels of ceruloplasmin are observed in acute-phase reactions, during use of oral contraceptives and with cholestase.

Gold serum separator (SST) tube

Immediately following collection, thoroughly mix sample by gently inverting 5 times

1. Allow sample to clot for a minimum of 30 minutes
2. Spin within two (2) hours of sample collection

Gold serum separator (SST) tube

Red serum vial/tube - 5 mL

Red/grey serum separator (SST) vial/tube, 10 mL

1. Allow sample to clot
2. Spin
3. Transfer serum to a False bottom plasma/serum transport vial/tube (AHL), labelled as serum, within two (2) hours of sample collection

False bottom plasma/serum transport vial/tube (AHL)

Red/grey serum separator (SST) vial/tube, 10 mL

Refrigerated (preferred) - 7 days

Frozen - 1 month, if frozen w/i 24 hrs of collection

Ambient - NO

• Improper labels (unlabeled or mislabeled)
• Hemolysis (some procedures)
• Lipemic or turbid samples which cannot be clarified by centrifugation
• Improper anticoagulant or ratio
• Delay in transport
• Improper storage temperature affecting results
• Improper container
• Leaking container resulting in compromised specimen
• Quantity not sufficient (QNS)
•  

Turbidimetric

Adult: 20 - 60 mg/dL