Name |
Caeruloplasmin |
Alternative name/Profile |
CAER, Wilson's (Wilson) Disease, Hepatolenticular Degeneration, Menkes Syndrome |
Department |
Immunology |
Investigation |
Turbidimetry (Roche Cobas c 303) |
Specimen type |
Clotted blood
|
Sample type |
Serum |
Sample container & volume |
5ml Red |
Frequency of analysis |
Daily, Monday to Friday |
Turnaround time |
4 days
|
Availability |
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Notes |
Useful for:
- Investigating patients suspected of having Wilson's Disease (Hepatolenticular Degeneration).
Clinical Information:
- Caeruloplasmin is an acute-phase glycoprotein that is synthesised in the liver.
- Each molecule of Caeruloplasmin contains up to 8 copper atoms.
- Caeruloplasmin transports copper in the body and is also involved in the oxidation of iorn, polyamines, catecholamines and polyphenols.
- A recessive autosomal genetic defect in the Wilson's Disease gene causes defective incorporation of copper into the Caeruloplasmin molecule.
- This defect results in decreased levels of serum Caeruloplasmin and pathological deposits of copper in the liver, brain, cornea and kidneys.
Please Note:
- Reduced Caeruloplasmin levels are also associated with the rare genetic disorder; Menkes Syndrome.
- Reduced Caeruloplasmin levels can also be secondary to other diseases that cause protein loss or liver failure.
- Increased Caeruloplasmin levels are seen in inflammation, pregnancy and in the use of the oral contraceptive pill.
- Not all patients with Wilson's disease have decreased Caeruloplasmin levels.
- Where External Institiutions cannot guarantee immediate delivery, samples must be centrifuged, separated and stored at 4oC. Samples can then be transported, as soon as possible, to St. James's Hospital for processing.
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Related links |
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Reference range |
Adults : 0.22-0.66g/L
Adult reference ranges validated in-house 2009. |
Last updated |
Fri, 20 Sep 2024 13:53:21 IST |
