What is the Comprehensive Metabolic Panel?
The comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) is a frequently ordered panel of 14 tests that gives a healthcare provider important information about the current status of a person’s metabolism, including the health of the kidneys and liver, electrolyte and acid/base balance as well as levels of blood glucose and blood proteins.
Testing
Glucose
Energy source for the body; a steady supply must be available for use, and a relatively constant level of glucose must be maintained in the blood.
Calcium
One of the most important minerals in the body; it is essential for the proper functioning of muscles, nerves, and the heart and is required in blood clotting and in the formation of bones.
Proteins
Albumin – a small protein produced in the liver; the major protein in serum
Total Protein – measures albumin as well as all other proteins in serum
Electrolytes
Sodium – vital to normal body processes, including nerve and muscle function
Potassium – vital to cell metabolism and muscle function
CO2 (carbon dioxide, bicarbonate) – helps to maintain the body’s acid-base balance (pH)
Chloride – helps to regulate the amount of fluid in the body and maintain the acid-base balance
Kidney Tests
BUN (blood urea nitrogen) – waste product filtered out of the blood by the kidneys; conditions that affect the kidney have the potential to affect the amount of urea in the blood.
Creatinine – waste product produced in the muscles; it is filtered out of the blood by the kidneys so blood levels are a good indication of how well the kidneys are working.
Liver Tests
ALP (alkaline phosphatase) – enzyme found in the liver and other tissues, bone; elevated levels of ALP in the blood are most commonly caused by liver disease or bone disorders.
ALT (alanine amino transferase, also called SGPT) – enzyme found mostly in the cells of the liver and kidney; a useful test for detecting liver damage
AST (aspartate amino transferase, also called SGOT) – enzyme found especially in cells in the heart and liver; also a useful test for detecting liver damage
Bilirubin – waste product produced by the liver as it breaks down and recycles aged red blood cells
How is the sample collected?
A blood sample is obtained by inserting a needle into a vein in the arm.
Is any test preparation needed to ensure the quality of the sample?
The person may need to fast (nothing but water) for 10 to 12 hours prior to the blood draw. Depending on the reason for ordering the CMP, it may be drawn after fasting or on a random basis.