Blood samples are placed in specially prepared tubes.
A group of eight tests known as the basic metabolic panel (BMP) are normally performed during a physical to screen for any abnormalities. These eight tests are used to determine if you are healthy or if there are indications that other tests might be needed to see if you are suffering from any potential diseases. These tests require a single sample of blood and may be collected randomly, or you may be directed to fast for up to 12 hours before the sample is taken.
Sample Collection
Many laboratory tests can also be performed on urine samples.
The doctor or nurse will take a small blood sample (sometimes two) by inserting a needle into a vein in your arm. The sample will be about 10 ml and is collected in a specially prepared tube. The tube will be shipped to a laboratory for analysis.
Glucose and Calcium
Your single sample will be divided at the laboratory for each test.
Levels of glucose may indicate metabolic disorders. High glucose can be an indication of diabetes or pre-diabetic conditions. Low glucose may indicate hypoglycemia. Calcium levels can indicate thyroid or liver disorders, osteoporosis and a variety of other conditions.
Electrolytes
Electrolyte balance is critical for optimal health.
Levels of sodium, potassiuim, carbon dioxide and chloride are routinely checked. Imbalances in sodium can indicate hypo or hypernatremia. Excess sodium sometimes decreases the amount of potassium in your body. Imbalances in sodium and potassium can lead to arrhythmia, hypertension and high or low blood pressure. Carbon dioxide and chloride levels can indicate acidosis or alkalosis.
Kidney Function Tests
Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels indicate kidney function. Both are waste products of protein breakdown in the bloodstream. High levels indicate that the kidneys are not filtering these waste products effectively. About 1 in 10 Americans suffer from chronic kidney disease.
Normal Ranges for BMP Results
Test results are compared to normal ranges depending on your age and sex. Results that are outside of normal ranges may be due to non-threatening temporary circumstances or may indicate an acute or chronic medical condition that requires further examination. For instance, excess glucose may be due to a recent high-calorie meal. Excess BUN or creatinine may be due to recent strenuous activity or exercise. Let your doctor interpret your results to determine if further examination is necessary.
Tags: levels indicate, dioxide chloride, eight tests, further examination, glucose indicate, Imbalances sodium
