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Patient Education

Complete Metabolic Panel (CMP)

A comprehensive blood panel that reveals how your kidneys, liver, and metabolism are truly working.

A Complete Metabolic Panel (CMP) is a single blood test that gives Dr. Golian a broad snapshot of how your kidneys, liver, and metabolism are working. By measuring electrolytes, blood sugar, and key organ markers together, it helps us catch quiet changes early and guide your care plan for conditions like Type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure.

How It Works & What It Measures

The CMP is a panel of fourteen measurements drawn from one ordinary blood sample. It evaluates your blood glucose, kidney markers (such as creatinine and BUN), liver enzymes and proteins, and the electrolytes that keep your body in balance.

Dr. Golian reviews these values together rather than in isolation, looking for patterns that point to elevated blood sugar or early kidney or liver stress. When sugar control is a focus, she often pairs the CMP with HbA1c testing for a fuller picture.

How to Prepare for Your CMP

Dr. Golian will confirm whether fasting is needed when she orders your panel, since it's often timed alongside a lipid panel.

Keep taking your regular medications unless told otherwise, and let us know about any supplements you use. Staying well hydrated makes the blood draw quicker and more comfortable.

After Your Test & Follow-Up

Your sample is processed at a partner laboratory, and results typically return within a day or two. Dr. Golian personally reviews every panel and walks you through what the numbers mean in plain language.

If a value falls outside the expected range, she may recommend a repeat test, lifestyle changes, or coordinated follow-up — including subspecialty care through Cedars-Sinai when warranted. For ongoing conditions, the CMP becomes part of your personalized care plan.

  • Are managing or being screened for diabetes or kidney disease
  • Take medications that can affect liver or kidney function
  • Have high blood pressure or are starting a new prescription
  • Want a thorough baseline as part of a comprehensive physical
  • Are due for routine preventive monitoring of your overall health

Frequently Asked Questions

1Do I need to fast before a Complete Metabolic Panel?
Dr. Golian will confirm your specific instructions when she orders the test.
2What's the difference between a CMP and a basic metabolic panel?
A CMP includes everything in a basic panel plus liver markers like albumin, total protein, and key liver enzymes. That makes it a more complete look at both your kidneys and your liver in one draw.
3How is a CMP different from an HbA1c or lipid panel?
A CMP evaluates kidney function, certain electrolytes, and liver function tests. An HbA1c reflects your average blood sugar over several months, and a lipid panel measures cholesterol levels. Dr. Golian often orders these tests together to provide a more complete metabolic picture.
4How quickly will I get my results?
Results usually come back within one to two business days. Dr. Golian reviews each panel personally and contacts you to explain what the numbers mean and any next steps.
5Where is the blood drawn for patients in Los Angeles?
Your sample is collected either in our office or at a lab near you and processed through a convenient partner lab in the Los Angeles area, with results sent directly to Dr. Golian for review.

Ready for a Complete Metabolic Panel?

Get a clear, personally reviewed picture of your kidney, liver, and metabolic health with Dr. Golian.

Schedule a Consultation

Medical Disclaimer

The information on this site is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reading this site does not create a doctor–patient relationship. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personal guidance. If this is an emergency, call 911. Mentions of medications, devices, or procedures are informational and not endorsements. Full medical disclaimer.

Some listed indications involve investigational/off-label use. Learn more.