Kidney & Metabolic Panel (Basic Metabolic Profile, Phosphate (As Phosphorus))

This panel can be used to evaluate kidney function, blood acid/base balance, and your levels of blood sugar, and electrolytes. Depending on which lab you use, a basic metabolic panel may also check your levels of calcium and a protein called albumin.

Abnormal phosphorus levels are usually detected because of the relationship with and effect on calcium. Calcium is routinely tested as part of the Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP), which is included in this panel. If you have abnormal calcium levels, your doctor usually will check your phosphorus level.

The BMP includes the following tests:

  1. Glucose - Energy source for the body; a steady supply must be available for use, and a relatively constant level of glucose must be maintained in the blood.
  2. Calcium - One of the most important minerals in the body; essential for the proper functioning of muscles, nerves, and the heart and is required in blood clotting and in the formation of bones

Electrolytes

  1. Sodium - Vital to normal body processes, including nerve and muscle function
  2. Potassium - Vital to cell metabolism and muscle function
  3. CO2 (carbon dioxide, bicarbonate) - Helps to maintain the body's acid-base balance (pH)
  4. Chloride - Helps to regulate the amount of fluid in the body and maintain the acid-base balance

Kidney Tests

  1. BUN (blood urea nitrogen) - Waste product filtered out of the blood by the kidneys; conditions that affect the kidney have the potential to affect the amount of urea in the blood
  2. Creatinine – Waste product produced in the muscles; filtered out of the blood by the kidneys so blood levels are a good indication of how well the kidneys are working

Special Preparation: 8-12 Hour Fasting for more accurate results (especially with Glucose test).

More Detailed Phosphate Test Information

More Detailed BMP Test Information