A comprehensive metabolic panel is a group of chemical tests performed on the blood serum (the part of blood that doesn't contain cells).
This test provides an overall picture of your body's metabolism. Metabolism refers to all the physical and chemical processes in the body that use energy.
A blood sample is needed. For information on how this is done, see: Venipuncture
You should not eat or drink for 8 hours before the test.
When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain, while others feel only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.
This test will give your doctor information about:
Your doctor may order this test during a yearly exam or routine checkup.
**Note: Normal or healthy values for creatinine can vary with age. Normal value ranges for all tests may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.
The examples above show the common measurements for results for these tests. Some laboratories use different measurements or may test different specimens.
Key to abbreviations:
Abnormal results can be due to a variety of different medical conditions, including kidney failure, breathing problems, and diabetes-related complications. See the individual tests listed in the normal values section for detailed information.
There is very little risk involved with having your blood taken. Veins and arteries vary in size from one patient to another and from one side of the body to the other. Taking blood from some people may be more difficult than from others.
Other risks associated with having blood drawn are slight but may include:
Metabolic panel - comprehensive; Chem-20; SMA20; Sequential multi-channel analysis with computer-20; SMAC20; Metabolic panel 20
Updated by: A.D.A.M. Editorial Team: David Zieve, MD, MHA, and David R. Eltz. Previously reviewed by David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine (2/20/2011).
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