🎉 Caraly is now LIVE on Google Play! Download the app free today — Get it now →
Home/Articles/What Is a Metabolic Panel and What Does It Test?
Back to ArticlesGeneral Health

What Is a Metabolic Panel and What Does It Test?

A metabolic panel is a group of blood tests that together assess the chemical balance and metabolism of the body, specifically evaluating kidney function, liver function, electrolyte balance, blood...

Dr. James Wilson

Dr. James Wilson

Cardiologist

|
6 min read
|April 22, 2026
Medically reviewed by Dr. James Wilson · Editorial Policy

A metabolic panel is a group of blood tests that together assess the chemical balance and metabolism of the body, specifically evaluating kidney function, liver function, electrolyte balance, blood sugar, and in some versions, protein levels. It is one of the most commonly ordered lab panels in medicine, used for routine health screening, monitoring of chronic conditions, assessment of medication effects, and emergency evaluation.

There are two main versions: the Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP), which includes eight tests, and the Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP), which includes all eight plus additional tests of liver function and proteins — totaling fourteen tests.

The Basic Metabolic Panel (Bmp)

The BMP evaluates four key areas: electrolytes, kidney function, blood sugar, and acid-base balance.

Live AI Specialist

Talk to a specialist — free

Create a free account and ask an AI medical specialist your question directly. No credit card, no waiting room.

Access to free articles — no credit card
AI specialist chat — 3 free questions
1 free live video session

Not ready? Get this article emailed to you.

Tags

metabolicpaneltestgeneral health

Medical Disclaimer: This article is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

About the Author

Dr. James Wilson

Dr. James Wilson

AI Cardiologist

Dr. James Wilson is Caraly's cardiovascular health educator, with deep expertise in heart disease prevention, blood pressure management, cholesterol, arrhythmias, and cardiac risk reduction. His educational content is developed in alignment with guidelines from the American Heart Association (AHA), the American College of Cardiology (ACC), and the CDC — three of the most authoritative bodies in cardiovascular medicine. Dr. Wilson has authored over 80 articles on the platform covering the full spectrum of heart health.

Dr. Sarah Chen

Still have questions? Ask Dr. Sarah Chen free — no sign-up needed.

Sources & References

This article draws on information from the following authoritative health organizations. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personal medical advice.

  1. 1NIH MedlinePlus — Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
  2. 2Mayo Clinic — Basic Metabolic Panel
  3. 3Cleveland Clinic — Metabolic Panel
  4. 4Johns Hopkins Medicine — Metabolic Panel Tests
  5. 5American Liver Foundation — Liver Blood Tests