Discussion about this post

User's avatar
hoohoo's avatar

Chris, free copper index doesn't make sense to me. Your document says "Free copper index: subtract (ceruloplasmin * 3.15 in mcg/L) from serum copper in mcg/L . This is the free copper." If my patient's serum copper is 95 mcg/dL (950 mcg/L) and ceruloplasmin is 25.6 mg/dL (256,000 mcg/L), with the equation I am getting a free copper of -805,450 and that's nonsense. I'm screwing something up and I'd really appreciate help.

Expand full comment
Simas's avatar

Hi, Chris. I think there is something wrong with the units when it comes to free copper calculation and in general:

1. "Based on anecdotal experience, I believe the bottom of the reference range is too low and that one should aim to be mid-range, around 90-120 mcg/mL." This should be mcg/dL I believe

2. "Free copper index: subtract(ceruloplasmin * 3.15 in mcg/L) from serum copper in mcg/L. This is the free copper. Divide this by the serum copper to yield the % free copper. If free copper is above 15 or the % free copper is above 15%, seeElevated Free Copperbelow."

There is also something wrong with this formula as well.

E.g. my ceruloplasmin is 0.20 mcg/ml

Serum copper is 58.39 mcg/dL or 0.584 mcg/ml. So 0.584 - 3.15*0.20= -0.0046.

Expand full comment
20 more comments...

No posts