What is the difference between a CBC and a CMP test?
A Complete Blood Count (CBC) and a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) are both blood tests that provide valuable information about a person's health, but they measure different aspects. A CBC primarily focuses on the cellular components of the blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. It provides information about conditions such as anemia, infections, and blood disorders. On the other hand, a CMP primarily measures various components in the blood Serum, including electrolytes, liver and kidney function, glucose levels, and protein levels. It helps evaluate organ function, detect metabolic disorders, and assess overall health. While a CBC is more focused on blood cell counts and morphology, a CMP provides a broader evaluation of metabolic and organ functions. Depending on the specific healthcare needs, a healthcare professional may order either or both tests.