£40.00
More than 95% of the copper is incorporated into ceruloplasmin. Ceruloplasmin contains 8 copper atoms per molecule and is an acute phase protein and transport protein. Incorporation of copper into the structure occurs during the synthesis of ceruloplasmin in the hepatocytes.
Decreased concentrations in serum occur during recessive autosomal hepatolenticular degeneration (Wilson’s disease), dietary copper deficit (results in severe derangement in growth and impaired erythropoiesis). Increased concentrations in serum occur during malnutrition, hypoproteinemia, malabsorption, nephrotic syndrome, Menkes disease, copper toxicity.
Hypercupremia is found in primary biliary cirrhosis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, hemochromatosis, malignant diseases (including leukemia), thyrotoxicosis, and various infections. Serum copper concentrations are also elevated in patients taking contraceptives or estrogens and during pregnancy.
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