Copeptin Blood Test

Order this Copeptin Blood Test to measure concentration levels of the substance copeptin or as an alternative biomarker for arginine vasopressin (AVP). A copeptin test is the most prevalently used test to help diagnose diabetes insipidus. Diabetes Insipidus is a rare condition caused by the pituitary gland or the kidney's incapacity to balance fluid levels properly. The pituitary gland releases antidiuretic hormone (ADH), or vasopressin (AVP), which helps the kidneys balance the amount of fluid in the body. However, if there are abnormally low levels of AVP or the kidneys do not respond to the hormone, the body cannot balance the fluids, causing large amounts of clear urine, dehydration, and increased thirst. 

Common symptoms of diabetes inspidus include:

• Excessive thirst
• Excessive urination (clear urine)
• Frequent nighttime urination
• Nausea
• Dizziness upon standing
• Fainting

Additionally, this copeptin blood test can help to distinguish which type of diabetes insipidus disorder an individual may have. The two main types of diabetes insipidus include:

• Central Diabetes Insipidus is associated with damage to the pituitary gland or hypothalamus that prevents adequate antidiuretic hormone (ADH) production. It may be inherited or acquired through conditions like cancer, head trauma, and infections (encephalitis or meningitis).
• Nephrogenic Diabetes Insipidus disorder is related to the kidneys' incapacity to properly process antidiuretic hormone (ADH). It may be inherited or acquired through conditions like kidney disease.

Individuals should note that diabetes insipidus is not to be mistaken for diabetes mellitus (diabetes), a chronic disease associated with blood sugar and insulin production.

Individuals may order the Copeptin Blood Test if they are experiencing symptoms of diabetes insipidus. Copeptin tests provide greater diagnostic accuracy than other urine and blood tests that screen for diabetes insipidus, such as indirect water deprivation tests. Copeptin may also be ordered in conjunction with an Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH) test.