Blood Chemistry

What Is a Chemistry Panel?

Chemistry panels are groups of tests that are routinely ordered to determine a person’s general health status. They help evaluate, for example, the body’s electrolyte balance and/or the status of several major body organs.

Testing

The tests are performed on a blood sample, usually drawn from a vein in the arm. Some of the number and type of tests contained in specific panels, and the names of the panels, have been standardized nationally. Examples of common chemistry panels include:

Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP)
Usually contains 8 tests, all of which are found in the CMP (below); provides information about the current status of a person’s kidneys and respiratory system as well as electrolyte and acid/base balance and level of blood glucose

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
Usually includes 14 tests; provides the same information as the BMP with the addition of the status of a person’s liver and important blood proteins

Electrolyte Panel
Helpful for detecting a problem with the body’s fluid and electrolyte balance

Lipid Panel
Used to assess a person’s risk of developing cardiovascular disease

Liver Panel
Used to screen for, detect, evaluate, and monitor acute and chronic liver inflammation (hepatitis), liver disease and/or damage

Renal Panel
Contains tests such as albumin, creatinine, BUN, eGFR to evaluate kidney function

Thyroid Panel
To help evaluate thyroid gland function and to help diagnose thyroid disorders

Our panels can be tailored to meet the needs of the health practitioner ordering the tests.