What Is a Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP)?

Q: What Is a Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP)?

BMP explained: 8 tests for kidney function, electrolytes, and glucose. How it differs from CMP (which adds 6 liver tests) and when each is ordered.

A BMP measures 8 substances: kidney function, electrolytes, and glucose.

Components

Glucose, Calcium, Sodium, Potassium, Chloride, CO2, BUN, Creatinine

BMP vs CMP

CMP = BMP + 6 liver tests
BMP = 8; CMP = 14

When Ordered

Kidney monitoring
Electrolyte checks
Pre-operative screening

Source: NLM MedlinePlus, American Association for Clinical Chemistry.

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