Which of the following parameters is NOT typically measured in a basic metabolic panel?

The basic metabolic panel (BMP) is a group of tests that provides information about the body’s chemistry and metabolic processes. It typically includes measurements of glucose, calcium, electrolytes such as potassium, sodium, bicarbonate, and chloride, as well as other components that reflect kidney function, including blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine.

Albumin, while an important protein in the body and often assessed to evaluate liver function and nutritional status, is not included in the BMP. Instead, albumin levels are typically measured in a comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), which adds other tests to the BMP, including liver function tests like albumin and bilirubin.

Understanding this distinction is crucial, as the BMP focuses primarily on metabolic functions and electrolyte balance, whereas albumin measurement is associated more with assessments of liver function and nutritional state.