Blood Chemistry Tests

What is a blood chemistry test?

A blood chemistry test is a lab test that measures the levels of certain substances in the blood, such as: 

• Glucose (blood sugar) 
• Electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium 
• Kidney function markers, such as creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) 
• Liver function markers, such as ALT, AST, bilirubin, and alkaline phosphatase 
• Fats (lipids), such as cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, and LDL 
• Proteins, such as albumin and total protein 
• Hormones, such as thyroid hormones, insulin, cortisol, testosterone, and estrogen 
• Vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D, vitamin B12, calcium, and magnesium 
• Inflammation markers, such as C-reactive protein (CRP) 

Some of the tests require your child to fast (not eat or drink) before the test. Your care team will let you know how to prepare. 

Benefits of blood chemistry tests

There are different types of blood chemistry tests. Your care team may order a single test. Or they may order a panel, which includes several tests. 

Electrolyte panel

Electrolytes are minerals that help keep acids and bases balanced in the body. This includes sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate. Abnormal electrolyte levels may be a sign of dehydration, vomiting or diarrhea, or problems with the kidneys, liver, or heart.

Kidney panel

Kidney tests measure substances such as albumin, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and creatinine. These tests may also include the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), which shows how well the kidneys are working. Abnormal results may be a sign of kidney problems. 

Liver panel

Liver tests measure liver function. Substances measured may include alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate transaminase (AST), bilirubin, albumin, and total protein. Abnormal levels of these substances may be a sign of liver problems. 

Basic metabolic panel (BMP)

This panel of tests can provide information about kidney and respiratory system (breathing) function, glucose levels, electrolytes, and acid-base balance. 

Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) 

A comprehensive metabolic panel is a basic metabolic panel with added liver function tests and certain blood proteins.  

Lipid panel 

The lipid panel measures total cholesterol, high-density lipoproteins (HDL), low-density lipoproteins (LDL), and triglycerides. 

Other tests may measure hormones, tumor markers, iron levels, vitamins, or heart function, depending on your child’s needs. 

Getting ready for a blood chemistry test

Your care team may have instructions to follow before your child’s blood test. This may include not eating or drinking before the test (fasting guidelines or NPO instructions). Be sure to follow these instructions.  

Medicines and supplements may also change the test results. Let your care team know if your child is taking any: 

• Medicines (prescription or over-the-counter) 
• Vitamins 
• Herbal products 

Talk to your care team if you have questions. 

What to expect during the blood chemistry study

A care team member will collect blood in small vials or tubes. The care team can draw blood through: 

• A fingerstick (finger prick) 
• A vein using a needle such as venipuncture or through a peripheral IV (PIV) 
• A central line such as a port or peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC line)

The blood sample is sent to the lab, and the results are shared with your care team. 

Possible risks of blood chemistry tests

A blood chemistry test generally safe. Possible risks include:

• Pain or discomfort at the needle site 
• Bleeding or bruising   
• Dizziness or lightheadedness 
• Infection 

Questions to ask your care team

• Which lab tests does my child need? 
• Why is my child getting the tests?  
• How will the blood sample be collected? 
• How should my child prepare for the tests?  
• Can my child eat or drink before the test? 
• How long will it take to get the test results?  
• How will we get the results?  
• Will my child need any follow-up tests?  
• What will happen if the results are not normal? 

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