Zinc Serum Test
Also known as: Zinc (Serum)
Zinc (Serum) Details in Brief
| Also Known As | Zinc Test, Serum Zinc Test, Zinc by ICPMS, Trace Element Zinc Test |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Helps diagnose zinc deficiency or excess, assess immune function, and monitor nutritional or metabolic disorders |
| Preparation | Avoid zinc supplements or multivitamins for 24 hours before the test |
| Fasting | Usually requires fasting for 8–10 hours |
| Reporting Time | After 3 days |
| Cost | 2,400 |
What is a Zinc Test?
The Zinc (Serum) Test measures the amount of zinc in your blood. Zinc is an essential trace mineral that supports immune function, wound healing, DNA synthesis, growth, and reproduction.
Doctors recommend this test to detect zinc deficiency or toxicity and to monitor nutritional status in individuals with chronic illness, malabsorption, or dietary concerns. The test uses Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICPMS) — a highly sensitive method that accurately measures trace element levels in your serum.
A small blood sample is collected from a vein in your arm using a trace element-free tube to avoid contamination.
What Does a Zinc Test Measure?
This test measures the concentration of zinc in your bloodstream, providing important information about your body’s nutritional balance. It helps in:
- Assessing zinc deficiency or toxicity.
- Evaluating causes of poor wound healing or frequent infections.
- Monitoring zinc levels in individuals with malnutrition, gastrointestinal disorders, or chronic diseases.
- Checking zinc supplementation effectiveness.
- Assessing suspected zinc poisoning from occupational or environmental exposure.
Zinc (Serum) Test: Who Needs It and Why It’s Done
What Symptoms May Call for a Zinc (Serum) Test?
Your doctor may recommend a zinc test if you experience:
- Poor wound healing or slow recovery after injury.
- Hair loss, brittle nails, or dry skin.
- Loss of appetite, fatigue, or weight loss.
- Frequent infections or weakened immunity.
- Diarrhoea or malabsorption symptoms.
- Altered taste or smell.
Who Should Get a Zinc (Serum) Test?
- People with malnutrition, gastrointestinal disorders, or chronic liver disease.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women with high nutritional demands.
- Children with delayed growth or developmental issues.
- Patients on parenteral nutrition or zinc supplementation.
- Individuals exposed to zinc in occupational or industrial environments.
Why is a Zinc Test Done?
The test is performed to evaluate zinc levels for diagnosing deficiency or toxicity, monitoring nutritional therapy, and assessing the body’s ability to absorb and utilise trace minerals effectively.
Importance of a Zinc Test
Zinc plays a critical role in maintaining immunity, cellular repair, and hormonal balance. Detecting zinc deficiency early helps prevent complications such as delayed wound healing, growth retardation, and weakened immunity. It also assists in managing metabolic and digestive disorders that interfere with nutrient absorption.
Zinc Test Booking & Reports – Metropolis Healthcare
How to Book the Zinc (Serum) Test and Get Your Reports?
- Simple Online Booking
Book your Zinc (Serum) Test through the Metropolis Healthcare website or app. Choose your preferred time for home collection or lab visit. - Safe Sample Collection
Our trained phlebotomists collect your sample using metal-free trace element tubes to prevent contamination. - Sample Tracking Updates
Track your sample status easily through the Metropolis website or app. - Accurate Laboratory Testing
Testing is done using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICPMS) — a highly precise and advanced method for trace element analysis — in NABL & CAP accredited labs. - Quick & Convenient Reports
Reports are available after 3 days and can be accessed via email, WhatsApp, or the Metropolis Healthcare website and app.
Is Home Sample Collection for Zinc Test Available Near You?
Yes, Metropolis Healthcare offers home sample collection for the Zinc (Serum) Test. Our experts use sterile, metal-free collection materials and follow strict protocols to ensure sample integrity and accurate results.
In How Much Time Will I Get Zinc Test Report?
Reports are typically available after 3 days once your sample reaches the lab.
Note: Reporting time may vary depending on your location.
Where Can I See or Get Zinc Test Results?
You can access your test reports through the Metropolis Healthcare website, app, email, or WhatsApp. Physical copies can also be collected from your nearest Metropolis Laboratory.
Interpreting Zinc Test Results
What Your Zinc Test Results May Indicate
| Parameter | Normal Range | Low Values May Indicate | High Values May Indicate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zinc (Serum) | 54–151 µg/dL | Zinc deficiency due to malnutrition, malabsorption, chronic illness, or pregnancy | Zinc toxicity from excessive supplements or occupational exposure |
How Should You Prepare for a Zinc Test?
- Fasting: Do not eat or drink anything except water for 8–10 hours before the test.
- Supplement caution: Avoid taking zinc, multivitamins, or mineral supplements for at least 24 hours before the test.
- Clean collection site: Wash your arm with soap and water before collection to avoid external contamination.
- Inform your doctor: Mention all medications, as diuretics and birth control pills may affect results.
- Avoid metal contamination: Remove any metallic objects near the collection site during sampling.
How Is a Zinc Test Done? (Step-by-Step Procedure)
- Preparation: A trace element–free collection tube is used to prevent contamination.
- Cleaning: The puncture site is cleaned with soap, water, and alcohol (avoid iodine-based disinfectants).
- Blood Draw: About 6 ml of blood is drawn using a stainless-steel needle.
- Sample Processing: The sample is centrifuged, and serum is separated into a metal-free tube.
- Analysis: Zinc levels are measured using ICPMS technology for precise quantification.
Conditions That May Affect Zinc Test Accuracy
- Recent zinc supplement intake may falsely elevate levels.
- Oral contraceptives and pregnancy can lower zinc levels.
- Infections, inflammation, or stress may temporarily reduce zinc concentration.
- Contamination from metal instruments or tubes can alter results.
Diseases That a Zinc Test Can Help Detect
- Zinc Deficiency and Malnutrition
- Chronic Liver Disease
- Malabsorption Syndromes (e.g., Crohn’s disease, celiac disease)
- Chronic Infections and Inflammatory Disorders
- Zinc Toxicity or Occupational Exposure
Zinc Test Price in Different Cities
The cost of a Zinc Test may vary depending on your location. Here's a table showing the approximate price range for the Zinc Test at Metropolis Healthcare in major Indian cities:
|
City |
Approximate Cost (INR) |
|
₹ 2000 to ₹ 2500 |
|
|
₹ 2000 to ₹ 2500 |
|
|
₹ 2000 to ₹ 2500 |
|
|
₹ 2000 to ₹ 2500 |
The Zinc Test cost may vary depending on the city and the specific tests included in the panel. However, Metropolis Healthcare offers competitive Zinc Test prices across major cities in India.
References
- Hambidge K.M., Krebs N.F. (2007). Zinc deficiency: A special challenge. J Nutr, 137(4), 1101–1105. PMID: 17374687
- Roohani N., Hurrell R., Kelishadi R., Schulin R. (2013). Zinc and its importance for human health: An integrative review. J Res Med Sci, 18(2), 144–157. PMID: 23914218
- Prasad A.S. (2013). Discovery of human zinc deficiency: 50 years later. J Trace Elem Med Biol, 27(4), 364–373. PMID: 24070965
- King J.C. (2011). Zinc: An essential but elusive nutrient. Am J Clin Nutr, 94(2), 679S–684S. PMID: 21715515
- International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (1995). Sample collection guidelines for trace elements in blood and urine. Pure Appl Chem, 67(8–9), 1575–1608. PMID: 24084391
Zinc (Serum) Price
Metropolis Healthcare is a leading diagnostics centre and pathology lab in India equipped with the latest state-of-the-art technologies that provides the Zinc (Serum) with a clear pricing structure.
The Zinc (Serum) Price in Mumbai is ₹ 2,400 .
We are committed to deliver accurate and quality results from the best labs in India with complete transparency regarding test cost and turnaround time. No matter where you are, we strive to offer patients high-quality service that is affordable and accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
It measures zinc levels in your blood to detect deficiency or excess and assess your nutritional health.
Yes, fasting for 8–10 hours is usually recommended.
No, avoid zinc or multivitamin supplements for at least 24 hours before testing.
It may indicate nutritional deficiency, poor absorption, or chronic illness.
High levels may result from excessive supplement intake or occupational exposure.
Reports are available after 3 days once the sample reaches the lab.
No, it’s a routine blood test with minimal discomfort.
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Metropolis has a team of 200 senior pathologists and over 2000 technicians delivering diagnostic solutions in the areas of routine, semi specialty and super specialty domains like Oncology, Neurology, Gynaecology, Nephrology and many more.
We offer a comprehensive range of 4000+ clinical laboratory tests and profiles, which are used for prediction, early detection, diagnostic screening, confirmation and/or monitoring of the disease.

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