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Basic Metabolic Panel

CPT/HCPCS 80048
Order Code CH001
Turnaround Time 24 hours
Test Includes

Sodium, Potassium, Chloride, CO2, Anion Gap, Glucose, BUN, Creatinine, BUN/Creatinine ratio, Serum Osmolality (calc), Calcium, eGFR African American, eGFR Non African American

Specimen Requirements
Specimen Source
Serum, Plasma
Transport Container
(Specimen Container)

SST (Tiger Top)
Sodium Heparin

Preferred Specimens
Serum
Minimum Volume (uL)
.5 mL
Collection Instructions
(Transport Temperature)
Refrigerated
Specimen Stability
Temperature Period
Room temperature 2 days
Refrigerated 3 days
Frozen 2 weeks
Reject Criteria

Gross hemolysis

Test Details
Methodology
See Individual Tests
Clinical Significance

Basic Metabolic Panel:
This panel comprises a group of 8 specific tests that provide information on the status of an individual’s blood electrolytes, glucose levels, kidney status, and acid-base balance. The panel is usually ordered as part of a routine health examination or physical. The Basic Metabolic Panel is also commonly ordered during hospital and emergency-room admission, and to monitor the metabolism and vital signs of hospitalized individuals with conditions, such as hypertension, who are being treated with diuretics or other appropriate interventions. Significant changes in electrolytes, acid-base balance, renal function, and blood glucose may be associated with kidney failure, respiratory distress, and impaired cognitive status. Changes in sodium, potassium, and calcium alter the excitability of neurons, cardiac, and skeletal muscles that can produce arrhythmias, weakness, and spasms/tremors. Basic metabolic panel test results are usually evaluated in conjunction with one another for patterns of results. A single abnormal test result could be indicative of something different than if more than 1 of the test results are abnormal. Many conditions can cause abnormal results, including kidney failure, respiratory distress, and diabetes-related complications.

Reference Ranges

See Individual Tests

Alternative Names
BMP, BMET