Pfeiffer Profile (Basic): Biochemical Assessment for Integrative Practice

Understanding Biochemical Individuality

The relationship between nutrient status, mineral balance, and wellbeing has been extensively studied over decades of clinical research. Pioneering work by Dr Carl Pfeiffer and more recently Dr William Walsh has identified specific biochemical patterns associated with particular presentations—patterns that can be assessed through targeted laboratory testing.

The Pfeiffer Profile (Basic) from NutriPATH provides a foundational biochemical assessment based on this body of research, offering practitioners objective data to guide individualised nutritional protocols.

Why Biochemical Testing Matters

Standard pathology often reports individual markers as "within range" without considering the relationships between nutrients or their functional significance. The Pfeiffer approach recognises that ratios and interactions between markers can be clinically more meaningful than isolated values.

This profile brings together key markers identified through decades of clinical research as particularly relevant to biochemical individuality and nutrient-based approaches.

What the Profile Measures

Copper and Zinc Status

Serum Copper – An essential trace mineral involved in numerous enzymatic reactions. Both deficiency and excess can affect wellbeing.

Plasma Zinc – Critical for over 300 enzymatic processes including immune function, tissue repair, and neurotransmitter metabolism.

Copper:Zinc Ratio – Often more clinically significant than individual values. This ratio reflects the balance between these two functionally interrelated minerals.

Caeruloplasmin – The primary copper-carrying protein in blood. This measurement enables calculation of free (unbound) copper.

Percent Free Copper – Copper not bound to caeruloplasmin. Elevated free copper may indicate copper dysregulation even when total copper appears within range.

Methylation Marker

Homocysteine – A key intermediate in the methylation cycle. Elevated levels may indicate compromised methylation capacity, B-vitamin insufficiency, or other metabolic considerations.

Histamine Status

Whole Blood Histamine – Provides insight into histamine metabolism and has been correlated with methylation status in clinical research. Histamine levels may reflect under- or over-methylation patterns.

Vitamin D

25-OH Vitamin D – The storage form of vitamin D, reflecting overall vitamin D status. Included as a foundational marker given its widespread relevance to immune function, bone health, and general wellbeing.

Clinical Utility

The Pfeiffer Profile (Basic) provides objective data to support assessment and guide targeted nutritional interventions. The panel is particularly relevant for practitioners working with clients where biochemical individuality may be a significant factor.

Results are presented with reference ranges and interpretive comments, enabling practitioners to identify patterns and develop individualised protocols based on each client's unique biochemistry.

Why Choose This Profile

Research-Based Selection – Markers chosen based on decades of clinical research into biochemical individuality

Ratio Analysis – Includes calculated ratios (Cu:Zn, % Free Copper) that provide additional clinical insight beyond individual values

Comprehensive Reporting – Clear results with interpretive guidance and relevant clinical considerations

Efficient Assessment – Multiple clinically relevant markers from a single blood draw

Established Laboratory – NutriPATH has provided integrative pathology services to practitioners across Australasia for over two decades

Extended Testing Options

For more comprehensive assessment, consider the Pfeiffer Profile (Advanced) which includes additional markers such as pyrroles (HPL/kryptopyrroles) and ceruloplasmin activity.

Complementary Testing

The Pfeiffer Profile pairs effectively with the Methylation Profile.

This test is intended for use under the guidance of a qualified healthcare practitioner. Results should be interpreted within the context of an individual's clinical history, presentation, and other relevant investigations.

Client Summary

The Pfeiffer Profile (Basic) is a blood test that assesses key nutrients and their relationships—including zinc, copper, vitamin D, and markers related to methylation. Research has shown that the balance between these nutrients, parti