Which test is included in the Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP)?

The Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP) is a group of blood tests that provide essential information about your body's chemical balance and metabolism. It primarily assesses levels of various electrolytes, kidney function, and blood glucose levels. Among the tests included in the BMP are calcium, chloride, sodium, potassium, bicarbonate, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), glucose, and creatinine.

Creatinine is particularly significant as it is a waste product produced from muscle metabolism, and its measurement helps evaluate kidney function. Elevated levels of creatinine in the blood may indicate impaired kidney function or disease, as the kidneys are responsible for filtering out this substance from the bloodstream.

While calcium and chloride are indeed components of the BMP, the inclusion of creatinine highlights its crucial role in assessing kidney health, making it a key indicator in the panel. Other options, such as Brain Natriuretic Peptide, are not part of the BMP, as this specific test relates more to heart function rather than metabolic status.