Comprehensive Metabolic Panel Testing in Point Loma

A comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) is a type of blood test that gives healthcare providers information about the body's metabolism. It can provide valuable insight into a person’s organ function, glucose levels, electrolyte levels, and acid/base balance.

This test can help to detect, monitor, or diagnose conditions such as diabetes, kidney, and liver diseases, or electrolyte imbalances.

Your doctor may recommend getting a CMP to diagnose an existing condition or as part of a routine checkup.

What Does a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel Measure

A comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), also known as a chemistry panel, comp metabolic panel, or chem screen, is a frequently ordered blood test that measures 14 different substances in the body. This contrasts with a Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP), which includes only seven different test components.

It includes glucose (blood sugar), electrolytes such as sodium and potassium, kidney markers like creatinine, proteins such as albumin, enzymes that indicate liver function, calcium levels, and uric acid. This blood test can help detect health conditions like diabetes, liver disease, and kidney failure so doctors can diagnose and treat them quickly.

The results of a CMP are used to assess organ functions and electrolyte balance in the body. Detecting underlying problems early on allows the patient to access timely treatment and take better control of any health issue before it worsens.

When Should I get a CMP?

Your healthcare provider may order a CMP if you are experiencing symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, confusion, abdominal pain or discomfort, nausea or vomiting, changes in appetite, unexpected weight loss or gain, blurred vision, muscle cramps or spasms, dry skin, increased urination, diarrhea, dehydration, headaches, etc. A CMP can help your doctor determine what is causing these symptoms and provide an accurate diagnosis.

Sometimes, a CMP may be used as part of routine health screenings, depending on your age and risk factors. For example, suppose you are over 40 or have diabetes, high blood pressure, or kidney disease. In that case, your doctor may recommend a CMP annually to monitor for changes in electrolyte levels or other metabolic abnormalities. Your healthcare provider will let you know if this test is necessary for you.

The comprehensive metabolic panel is a valuable lab test that can help your healthcare provider diagnose illnesses, detect changes in metabolism, and also monitor existing medical conditions. It is not always needed, so please chat with your doctor about whether this test is appropriate for you.

Do Urgent Care Centers Offer CMPs?

Urgent care centers typically provide a wide range of on-site services, including testing for metabolic disorders. At an urgent care center like AFC, you can get a CMP done fast and without an appointment while avoiding the long wait at a primary care office and the increased costs of an ER visit.