Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)

A comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) is a routine blood test that measures 14 different substances in a sample of your blood. It provides important information about your metabolism (how your body uses food and energy) and the balance of certain chemicals in your body. A CMP includes tests that measure your blood levels of: Glucose, also called 'blood sugar.' Glucose is your body's main source of energy.; Calcium.

This is one of the most important minerals in your body. Most of it is stored in your bones and teeth. Having the right amount of calcium in your blood is necessary for your nerves, muscles, and heart to work properly.; Sodium, potassium, bicarbonate, and chloride.

These are electrolytes, electrically charged minerals that help control the amount of fluid in your body. They also help control the balance of acids and bases (pH balance) in your body.; Albumin. This is the main protein in your blood.

It's made in your liver.; Total protein. This is the total amount of protein in your blood. It includes albumin and globulins, which are mainly made in your liver.; ALP (alkaline phosphatase), ALT (alanine transaminase), and AST (aspartate aminotransferase).

These are types of enzymes that are mainly made in your liver. Enzymes are proteins that speed up certain chemical reactions in your body.; Bilirubin. This is a waste product your body makes when it breaks down old red blood cells.

Your liver removes most of the bilirubin from your body.; BUN (blood urea nitrogen) and creatinine. These are waste products that your kidneys filter out of your blood and remove from your body through urine (pee).;

Why this test is done

Your health care provider may order a CMP as part of a routine checkup. You may also need this test if you:

• Have signs or symptoms that could be caused by liver or kidney disease, or metabolic disorders
• Have a general symptom, such as fatigue, that could be caused by many different types of conditions
• Had an abnormal CMP result in the past
• Are being treated for certain medical conditions and your provider wants to find out if your treatment is working and/or affecting your liver or kidneys

How to prepare

You may need to fast (not eat or drink) for several hours before the test.

Sample type

Blood

Other names for this test

chem 14, chemistry panel, chemistry screen, metabolic panel