A comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) is a type of blood test that provides important information about a person’s overall health and organ function. The CMP measures levels of various substances in the blood, including electrolytes, glucose, liver enzymes, and kidney function markers.
Some of the specific tests included in a CMP may include:
- Glucose: A measure of the amount of sugar in the blood, which can help diagnose diabetes and other metabolic disorders.
- Electrolytes: Electrolytes are minerals in the blood that are important for proper body function. The CMP typically measures levels of sodium, potassium, and chloride.
- Liver enzymes: The CMP measures levels of various liver enzymes, including alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), which can help identify liver damage or disease.
- Kidney function markers: The CMP measures levels of creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN), which can help evaluate kidney function.
- Calcium: Calcium is an important mineral in the body that is necessary for proper bone health and nerve function. The CMP typically measures levels of total calcium and ionized calcium.
The results of a CMP can provide valuable information about a person’s overall health and can help diagnose medical conditions such as diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease, and electrolyte imbalances. The CMP is often used as a routine screening test as part of a general check-up or as part of the evaluation of specific medical conditions.
