A comprehensive metabolic panel, often abbreviated as CMP, is a blood analysis that evaluates twenty different components of the blood. These components offer insights into the body’s overall chemical balance and metabolism. The panel typically includes tests for glucose, calcium, electrolytes, kidney function markers, and liver function markers. For example, measurements of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) can indicate liver damage or disease.
The examination of these twenty constituents in blood serum allows healthcare professionals to assess general health status, screen for underlying conditions, monitor chronic illnesses, and evaluate the effectiveness of medications. Its use spans decades, evolving from simpler blood chemistry analyses to the sophisticated, multifaceted panel employed today. Its diagnostic utility lies in the wide array of information gleaned from a single blood draw, saving time and resources while providing valuable information about a patient’s condition.