A comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) is a test that measures 14 different substances in the blood. It
provides important information about your body's chemical balance and metabolism. A CMP includes
tests for the following:
- Glucose, A sugar considered as the main source of energy.
- Calcium, An important mineral. Calcium is essential for the proper functioning of the nerves muscles, and heart.
- Sodium, potassium, carbon dioxide, and chloride. These are the electrolytes, electrically charged minerals that help control the number of fluids and the balance of acids and bases in the body.
- Albumin, a protein made in the liver.
- Total protein, which measures the total amount of protein in the blood.
- ALP (alkaline phosphatase): Enzyme made by the liver
- ALT (alanine transaminase): Enzyme made by the liver
- AST (aspartate aminotransferase): Enzyme made by the liver
- Bilirubin, a waste product made by the liver.
- BUN (blood urea nitrogen) and Creatinine, waste products removed from The blood by the kidneys.
What are the differences between the basic metabolic panel and the comprehensive
metabolic panel?
The only and major difference between basic and comprehensive metabolic panels is the addition of a
liver panel for a comprehensive metabolic profile.
What tests are included in a liver panel?
The liver panel consists of the following test:
- Total protein
- Aspartate aminotransferase (AST)
- Alanine aminotransferase (ALT)
- Albumin
- Alkaline phosphatase
How is this test performed?
This test is performed on a blood sample. The blood is obtained from the vein and this is performed by a
a healthcare provider in the following way.
- clean the skin
- put an elastic band above the area
- insert a needle into a vein (usually in the arm inside of the elbow or on the back of the hand)
- pull the blood sample into a vial or syringe
- take off the elastic band and remove the needle from the vein
What are the risks associated with this test?
There is no significant risk associated with this test. A small bruise or mild soreness around the blood
test site is common and can last for a few days. Get medical care if the discomfort gets worse or lasts
longer.
If anyone's result or a combination of comprehensive metabolic profile results is not normal, it can indicate
several conditions. These include liver diseases, kidney failure, or diabetes. More detailed testing is
required to confirm the diagnosis.
The comprehensive metabolic profile helps a doctor to understand a variety of medical issues
- As part of a routine health exam, when a person is being monitored for a specific condition or are taking medications that may impact the kidney or liver
- Gives information about the current status of the metabolism to the doctor including kidneys and liver as well as electrolytes and acid-base balance
- To monitor hypertension
- To monitor the use of medications
