What does Basic Metabolic Panel/Complete Metabolic Panel measure?

What does Basic Metabolic Panel/Complete Metabolic Panel measure?

• A. Electrolytes only
• B. Organ function only
• C. Electrolytes and organ function
• D. Hormones

Answer: (C)

These panels provide a broad view of the body's metabolic balance by assessing both electrolyte status and organ function. They measure electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate to evaluate fluid balance, nerve/muscle function, and acid-base status. They also include markers of organ function, notably kidney function (like BUN and creatinine) and glucose, and the comprehensive panel adds liver tests (ALT, AST, ALP, bilirubin) and protein levels to gauge liver health. Hormones are not part of these panels. Because it covers both electrolytes and organ function, it’s the best description of what BMP/CMP measure.

These panels provide a broad view of the body's metabolic balance by assessing both electrolyte status and organ function. They measure electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate to evaluate fluid balance, nerve/muscle function, and acid-base status. They also include markers of organ function, notably kidney function (like BUN and creatinine) and glucose, and the comprehensive panel adds liver tests (ALT, AST, ALP, bilirubin) and protein levels to gauge liver health. Hormones are not part of these panels. Because it covers both electrolytes and organ function, it’s the best description of what BMP/CMP measure.