caeruloplasmin
Last reviewed 07/2021
This is a copper containing protein which normally binds 90% of the copper present in plasma. It is not a copper transport protein but mirrors changes in serum levels.
The normal plasma level is 1-2.7 micromoles per litre.
Serum ceruloplasmin is reduced in:
- Wilson's disease
- malnutrition
- nephrotic syndrome
It is increased in:
- pregnancy
- oestrogen containing contraceptives
- acute infection
- some types of chronic liver disease
- malignancy
Note that reference ranges may vary with different laboratories.