Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP) Most Popular

The Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP) test contains 1 test with 11 biomarkers.

Brief Description: The Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP) test is a commonly performed blood test that provides important information about a patient's overall metabolic health and the function of key organs such as the kidneys and liver. It measures various chemical substances and electrolytes in the blood to assess their levels and balance, providing insights into overall health and detecting potential abnormalities. 

Also Known As: BMP, Chemistry Panel, Chemistry Screen, Chem 7, Chem 11, BMP Test, SMA 7, SMAC7, Basic Metabolic Test, Chem Test, Chem Panel Test 

Collection Method: Blood Draw 

Specimen Type: Serum 

Test Preparation: 9-12 hours fasting is preferred. 

When is a Basic Metabolic Panel test ordered?  

A Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP) test may be ordered in several situations to evaluate a patient's health:

1. Routine Health Check-ups: Doctors often include a BMP test as part of routine check-ups to assess general health, monitor organ function, and identify any underlying metabolic imbalances or disorders.

2. Evaluation of Organ Function: The BMP test helps evaluate the function of vital organs, such as the kidneys and liver. It can identify conditions like kidney disease, liver dysfunction, or imbalances in electrolytes that may affect overall health.

3. Monitoring Medications or Treatments: Patients taking medications that may impact kidney function, electrolyte balance, or liver enzymes may require regular BMP tests to ensure the medications are well-tolerated and not causing adverse effects.

4. Identification of Metabolic Disorders: The BMP test can aid in diagnosing or monitoring metabolic disorders like diabetes, as it includes measurements of blood glucose levels, which is crucial for assessing glucose control.

What does a Basic Metabolic Panel blood test check for? 

The basic metabolic panel (BMP) is a 9-test panel that provides essential information to a health practitioner about a person's current metabolic status, including kidney health, blood glucose level, electrolyte and acid/base balance. Abnormal results, particularly when they are combined, can suggest a problem that needs to be addressed. 

The following tests are included in the BMP test: 

• Bun/Creatinine Ratio: this is a ratio between your Urea Nitrogen (BUN) result and Creatinine result.  

• Calcium: this is a measurement of calcium in your blood. Calcium is the most abundant and one of the most important minerals in the body as it essential for proper nerve, muscle, and heart function. Calcium is also used for blood clot formation and the formation and maintenance of bones and teeth. 

• Carbon Dioxide: this is a measure of carbon dioxide in your blood. Carbon dioxide is a negatively charged electrolyte that works with other electrolytes such as chloride, potassium, and sodium to regulate the body’s acid-base balance and fluid levels.  

• Chloride: this is a measure of Chloride in your blood. Chloride is a negatively charged electrolyte that works with other electrolytes such as potassium and sodium to regulate the body’s acid-base balance and fluid levels. 

• Creatinine: this is a measure of Creatinine levels in your blood. Creatinine is created from the breakdown of creatine in your muscles and is removed from your body by the kidneys. Elevated creatinine levels are often associated with kidney damage. 

• Egfr African American: this is a measure of how well your kidneys are functioning. Glomeruli are tiny filters in your kidneys that filter out waste products from your blood for removal while retaining important substances such as nutrients and blood cells. 

• Egfr Non-Afr. American: this is a measure of how well your kidneys are functioning. Glomeruli are tiny filters in your kidneys that filter out waste products from your blood for removal while retaining important substances such as nutrients and blood cells. 

• Glucose: this is a measure of glucose in your blood. Glucose is created from the breakdown of carbohydrates during digestion and is the body’s primary source of energy. 

• Potassium: this is a measure of Potassium in your blood. Potassium is an electrolyte that plays a vital role in cell metabolism, nerve and muscle function, and transport of nutrients into cells and removal of wastes products out of cells. 

• Sodium: this is a measure of Sodium in your blood. Sodium is an electrolyte that plays a vital role in nerve and muscle function. 

• Urea Nitrogen (Bun): this is a measure of Urea Nitrogen in your blood, also known as Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN). Urea is a waste product created in the liver when proteins are broken down into amino acids. Elevated levels are often associated with kidney damage. 

Lab tests often ordered with a Basic Metabolic Panel test: 

Tests often ordered alongside a BMP are chosen based on the preliminary results from the BMP itself and the clinical context. Here are some tests that may be ordered in conjunction with a BMP and the reasons why:

1. Complete Blood Count (CBC):

   • Purpose: Assesses levels of different blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
   • Why Is It Ordered: A CBC is a common follow-up to a BMP if there is a need to check for signs of anemia, infection, or other blood-related conditions.

2. Magnesium:

   • Purpose: An important electrolyte for muscle and nerve function, not included in a standard BMP.
   • Why Is It Ordered: If there are symptoms such as muscle weakness or cardiac issues, or if other electrolytes are out of balance, magnesium levels may be checked.

3. Phosphorus/Phosphate:

   • Purpose: An electrolyte that plays a role in energy production and bone health.
   • Why Is It Ordered: If kidney function is abnormal or there is concern for bone metabolism issues, phosphate levels may be assessed.

4. Liver Function Tests (LFTs):

   • Purpose: Assess the health of the liver by measuring enzymes, proteins, and substances produced or processed by the liver.
   • Why Is It Ordered: If there is clinical suspicion of liver disease or abnormal results from the BMP, such as an altered blood glucose level, these tests can give more information.

5. Lipid Panel:

   • Purpose: Measures levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood.
   • Why Is It Ordered: Often done as part of routine health screenings to assess cardiovascular risk, especially if the patient has diabetes or high blood glucose levels.

6. Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c):

   • Purpose: Provides an average blood glucose level over the past three months.
   • Why Is It Ordered: If the BMP shows a high glucose level, this test can determine if there is a longer-term issue with blood sugar control indicative of diabetes.

7. Thyroid Function Tests:

   • Purpose: Measure hormones produced by the thyroid gland to assess its function.
   • Why Is It Ordered: Symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, or abnormalities in the BMP may lead a clinician to evaluate thyroid function.

8. Urinalysis:

   • Purpose: Tests urine for a variety of substances that can provide information about kidney and overall health.
   • Why Is It Ordered: Along with BUN and creatinine in the BMP, a urinalysis can help diagnose kidney problems or urinary tract infections.

9. C-Reactive Protein (CRP) or Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR):

   • Purpose: Indicators of inflammation in the body.
   • Why Is It Ordered: If there are symptoms that suggest inflammation or to follow up on an abnormal BMP result that could be related to an inflammatory condition.

10. Iron Studies:

    • Purpose: Measure aspects of the body’s iron storage and transport.
    • Why Is It Ordered: To investigate causes of anemia, particularly if related symptoms are present.

11. B-Type Natriuretic Peptide (BNP):

    • Purpose: Helps evaluate for congestive heart failure.
    • Why Is It Ordered: If there are symptoms like shortness of breath; also, electrolyte imbalances may be related to heart function.

These additional tests are ordered based on the individual's symptoms, health history, and possible conditions the physician may be concerned about. They help to provide a more comprehensive view of the individual’s health and can assist in diagnosing, monitoring, and managing health conditions.

Conditions where a Basic Metabolic Panel test is recommended: 

A Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP) test can assist in diagnosing and monitoring various conditions or diseases, including:

1. Kidney Disease: The BMP test helps identify kidney diseases such as chronic kidney disease, kidney infections, or kidney stones by evaluating kidney function markers like BUN and creatinine.

2. Liver Diseases: Abnormal liver function markers on the BMP test can indicate liver diseases such as hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, or liver damage.

3. Diabetes or Glucose Imbalances: The BMP test, which includes blood glucose measurement, aids in the diagnosis and monitoring of diabetes or impaired glucose metabolism.

How does my healthcare provider use a Basic Metabolic Panel test? 

Healthcare providers use the results of a Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP) test to:

1. Diagnose Medical Conditions: Abnormalities in BMP test results can help healthcare providers diagnose conditions such as kidney disease, liver dysfunction, diabetes, or electrolyte imbalances.

2. Monitor Treatment Effectiveness: Regular BMP tests allow healthcare providers to monitor the impact of treatments or medications on organ function, glucose control, or electrolyte balance. They can evaluate the effectiveness of interventions and make necessary adjustments to optimize patient care.

3. Assess Overall Metabolic Health: The BMP test provides valuable insights into a patient's metabolic state, helping healthcare providers assess overall health, detect risk factors, and guide further investigations if necessary.

By effectively utilizing the results of a Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP) test, healthcare providers can diagnose conditions, monitor treatment progress, and make informed decisions regarding patient care and management.

What do my Basic Metabolic Panel results mean? 

The results of the tests included in the BMP are usually analyzed together to look for patterns. A single abnormal test result may indicate something different than a series of abnormal test findings. 

Out-of-range results on any of the BMP's tests can be caused by a number of things, including kidney failure, breathing issues, and diabetes-related consequences. If any of the results are abnormal, one or more follow-up tests are usually ordered to help determine the reason and/or establish a diagnosis. 

Is there anything else I should know? 

The results of the BMP components can be influenced by a range of prescription and over-the-counter medicines. Any medications you're taking should be disclosed to your healthcare professional. Similarly, it is critical to provide them with a thorough medical history because many other circumstances can influence how your results are interpreted. 

Please note the following regarding BUN/Creatinine ratio:  The lab does not report the calculation for the BUN/Creatinine Ratio unless one or both biomarkers’ results fall out of the published range. If you still wish to see the value, it's easy to calculate. Simply take your Urea Nitrogen (BUN) result and divide it by your Creatinine result. As an example, if your Urea Nitrogen result is 11 and your Creatinine result is 0.86, then you would divide 11 by 0.86 and get a BUN/Creatinine Ratio result of 12.79.

Most Common Questions about the Basic Metabolic Panel test:

Understanding the Components of the BMP

What components are included in the Basic Metabolic Panel test?

The Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP) includes eight tests that measure glucose, calcium, electrolytes (sodium, potassium, carbon dioxide, and chloride), and kidney function (creatinine and blood urea nitrogen).

Why are glucose levels important in the Basic Metabolic Panel test?

Glucose levels are important because they show how your body processes sugar. Abnormally high or low glucose levels may indicate diabetes, hypoglycemia, or other endocrine disorders.

Why is calcium tested in the Basic Metabolic Panel test?

Calcium is tested because it plays a crucial role in nerve function, muscle contraction, and blood clotting. High or low levels may suggest a bone disease, kidney disease, parathyroid gland issues, malnutrition, or other conditions.

What is the significance of the electrolytes in the Basic Metabolic Panel test?

Electrolytes—sodium, potassium, carbon dioxide, and chloride—are vital for many bodily functions, including maintaining fluid balance, nerve transmission, and muscle function. Abnormal levels can be caused by a variety of conditions including kidney disease, heart disease, dehydration, and certain medications.

Why are creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) tested in the Basic Metabolic Panel test?

Creatinine and BUN are waste products filtered out of the blood by the kidneys. High levels can indicate that the kidneys are not working effectively.

General Applications

Why might a healthcare provider order a Basic Metabolic Panel test?

A healthcare provider might order a BMP as part of a routine health checkup, to monitor an ongoing condition, or to check how well treatments are working. It's also commonly ordered in emergency situations to help diagnose a sudden illness.

What do abnormal results mean in a Basic Metabolic Panel test?

Abnormal results in a BMP can indicate a variety of conditions, depending on which components are outside the normal ranges. These conditions might include kidney disease, diabetes, bone disease, and electrolyte imbalances. However, additional testing is usually needed to confirm a diagnosis.

How can a Basic Metabolic Panel test aid in diagnosing diabetes?

High glucose levels in a BMP may suggest diabetes. However, a BMP is not a definitive test for diabetes and further testing, like a Hemoglobin A1C test, would be necessary for diagnosis.

How can a Basic Metabolic Panel test aid in diagnosing kidney disease?

High levels of creatinine and BUN can suggest kidney disease, as these are waste products normally filtered out of the blood by the kidneys. However, other factors can also raise these levels, and more specific tests are typically needed to confirm a diagnosis of kidney disease.

Specific Conditions

Can a Basic Metabolic Panel test help monitor chronic conditions?

Yes, the BMP is often used to monitor chronic conditions, such as hypertension, heart disease, and kidney disease. It can help a healthcare provider assess how well treatments are working or if the disease is progressing.

Can a Basic Metabolic Panel test detect liver disease?

The BMP doesn't directly test for liver disease, but it can reveal electrolyte imbalances or abnormal calcium or glucose levels that may be associated with liver disease. More specific tests would be needed to diagnose liver disease.

How does the Basic Metabolic Panel test relate to heart health?

The BMP can reveal electrolyte imbalances, such as high or low potassiumlevels, which could affect heart rhythm. It also measures glucose and calcium, which when out of balance, may contribute to heart disease.

Can the Basic Metabolic Panel test detect bone disorders?

While the BMP is not a specific test for bone disorders, abnormal calcium levels could suggest potential issues with bones or related glands like the parathyroid. More specific tests, like a bone density scan, would be required for a definitive diagnosis.

Can the Basic Metabolic Panel test detect malnutrition?

A BMP can show imbalances in glucose or calcium, which might suggest malnutrition or deficiencies in diet. However, it cannot definitively diagnose malnutrition, and other nutritional assessments would be needed.

Can the Basic Metabolic Panel test be used to detect dehydration?

Dehydration can lead to imbalances in electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and chloride, which are part of the BMP. However, mild dehydration might not show up on a BMP, and the test can't definitively diagnose dehydration.

Can the Basic Metabolic Panel test detect adrenal gland disorders?

The BMP doesn't directly test for adrenal disorders, but it can reveal electrolyte imbalances that may suggest an issue with the adrenal glands. More specific tests, like an ACTH stimulation test, would be necessary to diagnose adrenal disorders.

Can the Basic Metabolic Panel test help monitor medications?

Yes, the BMP can help monitor the effects of certain medications, especially those that affect kidney function or electrolyte balance. It's often used to check if medication dosages need to be adjusted.

What are the limitations of the Basic Metabolic Panel test?

While a BMP provides important information, it is only one piece of the puzzle. Abnormal results may require further testing to determine the underlying cause. Additionally, the results can be affected by factors such as diet, medication use, and hydration status.

Can the Basic Metabolic Panel test be used to monitor metabolic syndrome?

While the BMP can provide information that may suggest metabolic syndrome, such as high glucose levels, it does not measure all the factors needed to diagnose this condition. Other tests, like cholesterol and triglyceride tests, are also necessary.

What does it mean if my Basic Metabolic Panel test shows high levels of glucose?

High levels of glucose could indicate diabetes or pre-diabetes. However, other conditions, such as pancreatitis, Cushing's syndrome, or certain medications, can also raise blood glucose levels.

What does it mean if my Basic Metabolic Panel test shows low levels of glucose?

Low glucose levels, or hypoglycemia, can be caused by conditions like insulin overuse, liver disease, hypothyroidism, or starvation. It can also be caused by excessive alcohol use.

What does it mean if my Basic Metabolic Panel test shows high levels of calcium?

High calcium levels could indicate overactive parathyroid glands, cancer, certain types of kidney disorders, or excessive vitamin D intake.

What does it mean if my Basic Metabolic Panel test shows low levels of calcium?

Low calcium levels might suggest underactive parathyroid glands, vitamin D deficiency, kidney disease, or low protein levels in the blood.

Is there anything I need to do to prepare for a Basic Metabolic Panel test?

Your doctor will give you specific instructions. You may be asked to fast (not eat or drink anything except water) for at least 8 hours before the test. Some medications can also affect the test results, so be sure to discuss all the medications you take with your doctor.

How frequently should I get a Basic Metabolic Panel test?

The frequencyof testing depends on a number of factors, including your age, overall health, and presence of any chronic conditions. Your healthcare provider will recommend how often you should have a BMP based on your individual health needs. For those with chronic conditions such as diabetes or kidney disease, more frequent testing may be required to monitor the condition or the effectiveness of treatments. Healthy adults might get a BMP as part of a routine annual physical examination. Always follow your healthcare provider's recommendations on testing frequency.

We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.