Comprehensive Metabolic Panel
A group of 14 tests that provide important information about the current status of your kidneys, liver, and electrolyte and acid/base balance
About This Test
A Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) is a group of 14 blood tests that provide doctors with important information about the current status of your kidneys, liver, and electrolyte and acid/base balance, as well as your blood sugar and blood proteins.
The CMP is an excellent way to get a quick snapshot of your body's chemical balance and metabolism. Abnormal results can indicate a variety of conditions and diseases that may need further investigation.
Why Get Tested?
A CMP may be ordered as part of a routine medical examination to monitor your overall health or to help diagnose a variety of conditions including:
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
- Diabetes and pre-diabetes
- Acid-base imbalance
- Electrolyte imbalance
This test is also commonly required before surgeries and to monitor existing medical conditions or medication effects.
What to Expect
The CMP is a simple blood test that requires only a small sample of blood, typically drawn from a vein in your arm using a small needle. The procedure takes less than five minutes and most people feel only a slight pinch when the needle is inserted.
For accurate results, you may need to fast for 8-12 hours before the test. Water is permitted and encouraged to prevent dehydration.
Results are usually available within 24-48 hours and will be reviewed by our healthcare professionals who can explain what they mean for your health.
Frequently Asked Questions
A CMP includes 14 different tests that check your glucose levels, electrolyte and fluid balance, kidney function, and liver function. These include tests for sodium, potassium, calcium, glucose, and proteins like albumin, as well as tests for kidney function (BUN, creatinine) and liver function (ALT, AST, bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase).
Fasting is required because food and beverages can affect the levels of glucose and certain other substances in your blood, potentially leading to inaccurate results. Water is permitted and encouraged during the fasting period.
For healthy individuals, a CMP might be part of an annual physical exam. If you have a chronic condition like diabetes, kidney disease, or liver disease, your doctor might recommend more frequent testing to monitor your condition.
Abnormal results can indicate a variety of conditions including kidney disease, liver disease, diabetes, malnutrition, and problems with hormone-producing glands. However, abnormal results don't necessarily mean you have a medical condition, as many factors can influence test results.
Most insurance plans cover the CMP test when ordered by a physician as part of preventive care or to diagnose or monitor a medical condition. At ISACARE, we also offer competitive self-pay rates for those without insurance coverage.