Copper, 24-HOUR Urine
How to prepare
You can eat and drink normally before the test.
Collect the first morning urine sample in the sterile container we give you.
Tell our phlebotomist about any medicines you take. Don't stop them without asking your doctor.
Wear a loose sleeve so the sample can be taken easily from your arm.
How it works
About this test
This test measures the copper passed in urine over 24 hours. It is a key test for Wilson's disease, an inherited condition where copper builds up in the liver and brain.
Why is this test done?
- Diagnose Wilson's disease
- Monitor copper-removing treatment
- Investigate liver disease in young people
Symptoms — when should you get tested?
- Liver problems or jaundice at a young age
- Tremor or stiffness
- Behaviour change
- Brown ring around the eye (Kayser–Fleischer ring)
Normal range
Reference ranges differ slightly between labs, methods, age and sex. Always discuss your report with your doctor.
If your result is high
High urine copper suggests excess copper in the body, as in Wilson's disease.
Common reasons- Wilson's disease
- Some liver diseases
- Copper-removing medicine (expected rise)
If your result is low
Low urine copper is usually not significant.
How is the test done?
- 1Book online
Choose your slot for home collection or a visit to our centre.
- 2Give a urine sample
Collect a mid-stream urine sample in the sterile container we give you (first morning urine is best).
- 3Tested in our lab
Your barcoded sample is tested on automated machines with strict quality checks.
- 4Report on WhatsApp
A pathologist checks the result and the report reaches you on WhatsApp and email.
Frequently asked questions
Pass the first morning urine into the toilet, then collect all urine for the next 24 hours, including the next morning's first urine, in the container we give.
No fasting is needed for this test. You can eat and drink normally.
Your report is usually ready in same day after the sample reaches our lab. We send it on WhatsApp and email, and you can also download it from the Reports page.
Please call our team to confirm whether home sample collection is available for your location and test.
This test needs a urine sample. Collect the first morning urine sample in the sterile container we give you.