Zinc RBC Blood Work Test

Getting tested for Zinc RBC (Zinc in red blood cells) can be important for several reasons:

To assess the long-term status of Zinc: Measuring Zinc levels in red blood cells can provide information on Zinc status over a longer period of time than measuring Zinc levels in serum or plasma. This is because Zinc in red blood cells reflects Zinc intake over the past 4-6 months, whereas Zinc levels in serum or plasma can fluctuate rapidly in response to changes in dietary intake.

To diagnose Zinc deficiency: Zinc deficiency can lead to a range of symptoms, including impaired immune function, growth retardation, and skin and eye lesions. Measuring Zinc levels in red blood cells can help diagnose Zinc deficiency more accurately than measuring Zinc levels in serum or plasma.

To monitor the effectiveness of Zinc treatment: If you are being treated for a Zinc deficiency or other condition, a Zinc RBC test can help monitor the effectiveness of your treatment.

To assess overall Zinc status: A Zinc RBC test can be part of a broader panel of tests to assess overall nutritional status and identify potential deficiencies.

Overall, a Zinc RBC test can provide important information about your Zinc levels and overall health. If you have concerns about your Zinc levels or have symptoms such as impaired immune function or slow wound healing, it may be a good idea to speak with your healthcare provider about getting a Zinc RBC test.