| Home > Site Map > Conditions > C > Copper toxicity |
| Copper is a heavy metal that is toxic in its unbound form. Most diets contain enough copper (2-5mg daily) to prevent a deficiency and not enough to cause toxicity. Since copper and zinc compete with each other for absorption in the gut, copper toxicity has been the subject of greater concern in recent years. This is primarily due to reduced zinc in the diet and the switch from galvanized to copper water pipes. Acidic water such as rain water, left standing in copper plumbing pipes, can be a source of toxicity when consumed. High copper levels, especially when associated with low zinc levels, have been linked to a variety of symptoms and conditions. Diagnosis & Tests The best means of testing for copper toxicity are 24-hour urine copper or serum ceruloplasmin level tests. Hair levels of copper are not very helpful in detecting increased body copper because of external contamination. If contamination is ruled out, hair copper is suggestive of body state. Complications If as little as 2gm of a copper salt are ingested, usually with suicidal intent, the resulting copper-induced hemolytic anemia and kidney damage are generally fatal. |
| Depression Premenstrual Syndrome Ulcerative Colitis |