Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)

A comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) is a blood test that measures a variety of substances in the blood, including electrolytes, glucose, proteins, and liver and kidney function tests. The CMP is commonly used to evaluate overall health and to screen for a variety of medical conditions, such as diabetes, liver disease, and kidney disease.

The CMP typically includes the following tests:

• Glucose
• Electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride, and CO2)
• Kidney function tests (blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine)
• Liver function tests (albumin, total protein, bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST))

The results of a CMP can help healthcare providers diagnose and monitor a variety of medical conditions, such as diabetes, liver disease, and kidney disease. Abnormal levels in any of the CMP tests may indicate an underlying medical condition, and additional tests or evaluation may be needed to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

It’s important to discuss the results of a CMP with a healthcare provider, who can provide the necessary context and recommend appropriate follow-up if needed.

18 Analytes

1. Albumin
2. Albumin/Globulin Ratio (calc)
3. Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP)
4. ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase)
5. AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase)
6. Bilirubin Total
7. Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN)
8. BUN/Creatinine
9. Calcium
10. Carbon Dioxide
11. Chloride
12. Creatinine
13. EGFR (calc)
14. Iron
15. Glucose
16. Protein, Total
17. Potassium
18. Sodium

Albumin is a protein produced by the liver that is an important part of the blood. It helps regulate the fluid balance in the body, transports hormones and other substances, and maintains the proper blood pressure. Low levels of albumin can indicate a variety of conditions, including liver disease, malnutrition, or kidney disease. Measuring albumin levels is a common blood test used to evaluate a person’s overall health status and to monitor the effectiveness of treatment for certain conditions.

The Albumin/Globulin Ratio (AGR) is a calculation that is performed to evaluate the balance between two major proteins in the blood: albumin and globulin. The AGR is obtained by dividing the serum albumin level by the total globulin level. A low AGR can indicate a variety of conditions, including liver disease, malnutrition, and kidney disease, while a high AGR can indicate dehydration or overhydration. The AGR is used in conjunction with other tests and clinical information to help diagnose and monitor various health conditions.

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of phosphates from a variety of organic compounds. It is found in many tissues and organs, including the liver, bone, and intestines, and its activity is commonly used as a marker for various medical conditions, including liver and bone disease. Elevated levels of ALP in the blood can indicate a number of health issues and further tests are usually needed to determine the underlying cause.

ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) is an enzyme found mainly in liver cells. Elevated levels of ALT in the blood can indicate liver damage, such as from viral hepatitis, alcohol use, or certain medications. Measuring ALT levels is a common way to screen for liver problems and monitor their progression. However, elevated ALT levels do not always indicate liver disease and other tests such as ultrasound, biopsy, or further blood tests are often needed to diagnose the underlying cause.

AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) is an enzyme found in various tissues throughout the body, including the liver, heart, and muscles. Elevated levels of AST in the blood can indicate damage to these tissues, particularly the liver, and is often used as a marker for liver disease. Elevated AST levels can also be seen in conditions such as heart attack, muscle damage, or liver inflammation caused by viral hepatitis, alcohol use, or certain medications. Measuring AST levels is a common way to screen for liver and heart problems, but further tests are often needed to diagnose the underlying cause.

Bilirubin Total is a blood test that measures the total amount of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment that is produced when red blood cells break down and is normally removed from the body by the liver. Elevated levels of bilirubin can indicate a number of liver or blood disorders, including liver disease, anemia, or increased red blood cell breakdown. Low levels of bilirubin are not usually a concern, but in some cases can indicate problems with bilirubin metabolism or removal. Measuring bilirubin total is a common way to screen for liver and blood problems and to monitor the effectiveness of treatment.

Bilirubin Direct (Conjugated Bilirubin) is a blood test that measures the level of bilirubin that has been conjugated, or combined with glucuronic acid, in the liver. Conjugated bilirubin is water-soluble and can be easily excreted from the body in the bile. Elevated levels of conjugated bilirubin can indicate a number of liver problems, including blockage of the bile ducts, liver disease, or hepatitis. Low levels of conjugated bilirubin are not usually a concern. Measuring bilirubin direct is a common way to screen for liver problems and to monitor the effectiveness of treatment. The total bilirubin level and the direct bilirubin level are often measured together to provide a more complete picture of liver function.

BUN, or Blood Urea Nitrogen, is a blood test that measures the amount of nitrogen in the form of urea in the blood. Urea is a waste product that is produced when protein is broken down in the body. BUN is used as an indicator of kidney function because the kidneys filter waste products, including urea, from the blood and excrete them in the urine. Elevated BUN levels can indicate a number of kidney-related problems, such as dehydration, kidney disease, and urinary tract obstruction, as well as other conditions such as heart failure and liver disease. Low BUN levels can indicate malnutrition, liver disease, or the over-hydration of a patient. Interpretation of BUN levels should be done in conjunction with other laboratory tests, such as creatinine, electrolyte levels, and kidney function tests, to accurately diagnose and monitor kidney-related conditions.

Calcium is a mineral that is essential for many functions in the body. It is best known for its role in building and maintaining strong bones, but it also plays a role in blood clotting, muscle function, and other processes. The majority of calcium in the body is stored in bones, but a small amount is found in the bloodstream and other tissues.

Calcium can be obtained through the diet by consuming foods that are high in calcium, such as dairy products, leafy green vegetables, nuts, and fortified foods. The body also requires vitamin D to absorb calcium, so it is important to maintain a healthy balance of both calcium and vitamin D in the diet.

A calcium deficiency, or hypocalcemia, can result from not getting enough calcium in the diet, problems with absorbing calcium, or medical conditions such as kidney disease or hormonal imbalances. Symptoms of hypocalcemia can include muscle cramps, spasms, and tingling sensations, as well as more serious symptoms such as seizures and heart problems.

Elevated calcium levels, or hypercalcemia, can also occur and can be a sign of medical conditions such as overactive parathyroid glands, certain types of cancer, and certain medications.

It is important to maintain healthy calcium levels through a balanced diet and, when necessary, with the help of calcium supplements and other treatments recommended by a healthcare provider.

A Serum Calcium Blood Test measures the total amount of calcium in the blood, including both ionized calcium and calcium that is bound to proteins such as albumin. The test is used to evaluate calcium levels and to diagnose and monitor conditions related to calcium metabolism, such as osteoporosis, hyperparathyroidism, hypoparathyroidism, and kidney disease. The test can also help monitor the effectiveness of treatments for these conditions.

Normal results for serum calcium levels are typically in the range of 8.5-10.5 mg/dL. However, the normal range can vary depending on the laboratory that performed the test and other factors such as age, gender, and overall health.

It is important to interpret the results of a Serum Calcium Blood Test in the context of a person’s medical history, symptoms, and other laboratory tests. Abnormal results may require additional testing and evaluation by a healthcare provider to diagnose and manage calcium-related conditions.

Carbon Dioxide (CO2) is a gas that is produced in the body as a result of cellular metabolism and respiration. In the body, carbon dioxide is carried in the bloodstream to the lungs, where it is exhaled.

Carbon dioxide is measured as part of a blood test called a Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP) to assess the acid-base balance in the body. The bicarbonate (HCO3-) level in the blood, which is a measure of the body’s ability to buffer acids, is used to calculate the carbon dioxide level.

Normal levels of carbon dioxide in the blood are typically in the range of 22-28 mEq/L. Abnormal levels can indicate a disturbance in the body’s acid-base balance, which can be caused by a variety of conditions such as kidney disease, respiratory alkalosis, metabolic acidosis, and others.

It is important to interpret the results of a carbon dioxide test in the context of a person’s medical history, symptoms, and other laboratory tests to accurately diagnose and manage conditions related to acid-base balance.

Chloride is an electrolyte that is present in the body as chloride ions (Cl-). It plays a role in maintaining the body’s fluid balance, helps to regulate blood pressure, and is involved in the production of stomach acid.

Chloride levels in the blood can be measured as part of a routine blood test called a Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP). Normal levels of chloride in the blood are typically in the range of 96-106 mEq/L.

Abnormal chloride levels can indicate a variety of conditions, such as dehydration, kidney disease, and metabolic imbalances. Elevated chloride levels (hyperchloremia) can also occur in conditions such as metabolic acidosis and kidney failure, while low chloride levels (hypochloremia) can occur in conditions such as dehydration and diarrhea.

It is important to interpret the results of a chloride test in the context of a person’s medical history, symptoms, and other laboratory tests to accurately diagnose and manage conditions related to chloride levels.

Creatinine is a waste product that is produced by muscle metabolism and is normally filtered from the blood by the kidneys. The level of creatinine in the blood is an indicator of kidney function.

A creatinine blood test measures the amount of creatinine in the blood and is usually performed as part of a routine blood test called a Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP). Normal levels of creatinine in the blood vary by age, gender, and muscle mass, but typically range from 0.5-1.2 mg/dL for men and 0.4-1.1 mg/dL for women.

Elevated creatinine levels (above the normal range) can indicate a decrease in kidney function or a decrease in blood flow to the kidneys. In some cases, elevated creatinine levels can also be a result of excessive muscle breakdown or the use of certain medications.

Low creatinine levels can be seen in conditions such as malnutrition, muscle wasting, or liver disease, which can affect muscle metabolism and creatinine production.

It is important to interpret the results of a creatinine test in the context of a person’s medical history, symptoms, and other laboratory tests to accurately diagnose and manage conditions related to kidney function.

EGFR (Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor) is a protein found on the surface of certain cells that helps regulate cell growth and division. Measuring the level of EGFR in the blood is used to help diagnose and monitor certain types of cancer, including lung, breast, and head and neck cancer. High levels of EGFR can indicate an increased risk of cancer progression and poor response to treatment, while low levels can indicate a good response to treatment or a low risk of cancer progression. The measurement of EGFR levels is used in conjunction with other tests and clinical information to guide diagnosis and treatment decisions.

Glucose is a type of sugar that is the main source of energy for the body’s cells. The level of glucose in the blood is tightly regulated by hormones such as insulin and glucagon.

A glucose blood test measures the amount of glucose in the blood. The test is usually performed as part of a routine blood test called a Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP) or as a separate test to screen for or monitor conditions such as diabetes.

Normal fasting blood glucose levels are typically in the range of 70-100 mg/dL. Higher than normal levels (hyperglycemia) can be seen in conditions such as diabetes, while lower than normal levels (hypoglycemia) can be seen in conditions such as insulinoma, an overactive adrenal gland, or excessive insulin therapy in people with diabetes.

It is important to interpret the results of a glucose test in the context of a person’s medical history, symptoms, and other laboratory tests to accurately diagnose and manage conditions related to blood glucose levels.

Iron is a chemical element with the symbol Fe and atomic number 26. It is a metal that is abundant in the Earth’s crust and is widely used for various purposes, including construction, transportation, electrical and electronic appliances, and medical equipment. Iron is also an essential component of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the body’s tissues.

Serum iron refers to the level of iron in the liquid portion of blood, known as serum. It is a commonly measured component in a blood test, which helps to evaluate a person’s iron status. Low levels of serum iron can indicate iron deficiency anemia, while high levels can indicate conditions such as hemochromatosis (an iron overload disorder). The normal range of serum iron levels may vary slightly depending on the laboratory, but generally falls between 50-150 mcg/dL.

Potassium is an electrolyte that is essential for maintaining normal heart and muscle function, fluid balance, and acid-base balance in the body.

A potassium blood test measures the amount of potassium in the blood. The test is usually performed as part of a routine blood test called a Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP) or as a separate test to screen for or monitor conditions such as high or low potassium levels.

Normal potassium levels in the blood are typically in the range of 3.5-5.0 mEq/L. High potassium levels (hyperkalemia) can be seen in conditions such as kidney disease, medications, and certain metabolic disorders, while low potassium levels (hypokalemia) can be seen in conditions such as malnutrition, excessive sweating, and the use of certain medications.

It is important to interpret the results of a potassium test in the context of a person’s medical history, symptoms, and other laboratory tests to accurately diagnose and manage conditions related to potassium levels.

Total protein is a laboratory test that measures the total amount of protein present in the blood. It is a broad test that reflects the overall protein status of the body and can provide information about various health conditions. The test results are typically reported in grams per deciliter (g/dL).

The normal range for total protein may vary slightly depending on the laboratory, but generally falls between 6.0 to 8.5 g/dL. Abnormal results may indicate a variety of conditions, including malnutrition, liver or kidney disease, inflammation, and certain infections. A healthcare professional will interpret the results in the context of a person’s overall health and medical history.

Sodium is an electrolyte that helps regulate fluid balance, blood volume, and blood pressure in the body.

A sodium blood test measures the amount of sodium in the blood. The test is usually performed as part of a routine blood test called a Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP) or as a separate test to screen for or monitor conditions such as high or low sodium levels.

Normal sodium levels in the blood are typically in the range of 135-145 mEq/L. High sodium levels (hypernatremia) can be seen in conditions such as dehydration, excessive salt intake, and certain medical conditions, while low sodium levels (hyponatremia) can be seen in conditions such as excessive water intake, certain medications, and certain medical conditions.

It is important to interpret the results of a sodium test in the context of a person’s medical history, symptoms, and other laboratory tests to accurately diagnose and manage conditions related to sodium levels.

SST tube of blood, serum

5 to 24 hours

Price: $89