What is Comprehensive Metabolic Profile?
Comprehensive metabolic panel is the combination of blood tests to provide vital insights about the chemical balance and metabolism of the body along with the evaluation of the kidney and liver function, levels of blood sugar and electrolyte balance for the detection of underlying health issues.
This comprehensive metabolic panel involves 14 different tests to assess the health condition including calcium, glucose, sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate, blood urea nitrogen and creatinine, total protein and albumin and the liver enzyme test including ALT, AST, ALP, and bilirubin.
By conducting these essential tests, a CMP gives crucial insights about the metabolic health and potential disorders.
How is the Test Performed?
The Comprehensive Metabolic Profile Test is a straightforward blood test and is performed using strict laboratory protocols
Preparation
- Fasting of 8 to 12 hours is required as the food intake may alter the results
- Medications such as diuretics, steroids and insulin can significantly alter the test results so inform your healthcare provider before the test.
Sample collection
- A trained phlebotomist draws blood from the vein typically arm using a needle and sent to the laboratory for further analysis.
Laboratory Analysis
- The sample is then sent to the laboratory for further analysis using technology such as automated chemistry analyzers
What are the symptoms that prompt this test?
The healthcare provider recommends this test if a person is exhibiting the symptoms of metabolic, liver, kidney, or electrolyte imbalance. The most common symptoms seen are mentioned below;
Symptoms Associated with Kidney Dysfunction
- Edema
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Frequent or decreased urination
- Increased blood pressure
- Nausea or vomiting
Symptoms Associated with Liver Damage
- Yellowing of skin or eyes known as jaundice
- Pain in the abdomen or swelling
- Stool with a dark color
- Stool in pale color
- Severe fatigue
- Appetite loss
Symptoms Associated with Electrolyte Imbalance
- Cramps in the muscles or weakness
- Heartbeat with an irregular rhythm
- Confusion
- Concentration difficulties
- Dehydration
- Feeling excessive thirst
Symptoms Associated with Abnormal Level of Sugar
- Increased hunger or thirst
- Urinating frequently
- Weight gain or weight loss without a known reason
- Vision blurriness
- Mood swings
- Tiredness and fatigue
CMP is also performed for the monitoring and effectiveness of ongoing treatment, pre-surgery and routine health checkup.
What are Normal Ranges for This Test?
The normal values for Comprehensive Metabolic Profile vary with factors such as age, gender, pregnancy, and underlying health conditions. The reference range is given below;
- Calcium– 5 to 10.2 mg/dL
- Glucose – 70 to 99 mg/dL
- Sodium – 135 to 145 mEq/L
- Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) – 135 to 145 mEq/L
- Bicarbonate – 22 to 29 mEq/L
- Creatinine – 6 to 1.3 mg/dL
- Total Protein – 4 to 8.3 g/dL
- Albumin – 5 to 5.0 g/dL
- ALP – 44 to 147 U/L
- ALT – 7 to 56 U/L
- AST – 10 to 40 U/L
- Total Billirubin – 1 to 1.2 mg/dL
**The reference ranges vary according to the assay of the test used in the laboratory. **
What Happens if Test Results Show Abnormal Levels?
Abnormal levels of Comprehensive Metabolic Profile test is an indication of various health issues that require further testing and immediate treatment.
Abnormal Glucose Levels
- High glucose –Diabetes, prediabetes
- Low glucose – Hypoglycemia due to fasting, overproduction of insulin, metabolic disorders
Abnormal Kidney Function Markers (BUN & Creatinine)
- High levels –Kidney disorders, heart failure, dehydration
- Low levels – liver disorders, malnutrition
Imbalances in Electrolyte
- Cause various disorders
Liver Enzyme Abnormalities
- High levels of ALT, AST, ALP, or bilirubin are suggestive of liver disease, obstruction of bile duct, or hepatitis
Abnormal Total Protein and Albumin Levels
- High levels –Infections, chronic inflammation, multiple myeloma
- Low levels – liver disease, malnutrition, kidney disorder
