Comprehensive Metabolic Panel for CLL Patients

What is a comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP)? How is this test useful for people with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)? Learn answers to these questions below! 

How Does a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel Help Someone with CLL? 

A comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), also called a comprehensive chemistry panel, is a common blood test that CLL patients should receive. It tests 14 chemicals to evaluate liver and kidney health, blood sugar levels, the acid and base balance of the blood, and the fluid/electrolyte balance. 

The information gained from the test may influence treatment decisions for CLL patients. For example, suppose the test results indicate that you have poor kidney health. In that case, this may impact your ability to take the CLL treatment venetoclax (Venclexta, AbbVie) because it puts you at a higher risk for a side effect called tumor lysis syndrome (TLS). 

What Does a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel Test For? 

• Glucose: Measures the amount of sugar in the blood and is used to diagnose diabetes. 

• Electrolytes: The test checks for carbon dioxide, sodium, potassium, and chloride levels, which are essential minerals for maintaining proper fluid balance and nerve function. 

• Kidney function: Measures the levels of waste products removed from the blood by the kidneys, such as creatinine (Cr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN). These values help assess the health of your kidneys. If levels are high, this can indicate kidney damage or disease. 

• Liver function: Measures levels of liver enzymes such as ALP (alkaline phosphatase), ALT (alanine transaminase), and AST (aspartate aminotransferase). It also checks levels of bilirubin (a waste product produced by the liver) that can indicate liver disease. 

• Total protein: Analyzes levels of albumin and globulins in the blood. This can be used to assess liver and kidney function. 

• Calcium: Checks calcium levels, which are important for bone health and nerve function. Abnormal levels can indicate various conditions, such as kidney disease or hyperparathyroidism. 

How Do I Prepare for a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel? 

Patients are usually asked to fast for 10-12 hours to prepare for the test. If you have any concerns about fasting, please speak with your doctor. You may also be asked to avoid certain medications or supplements that could interfere with the test's results. 

What are the Steps of a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel?

The entire test takes less than 5 minutes to complete. A trained phlebotomist or healthcare professional will perform the blood draw. They will find a vein in one of your arms, clean the area with an antiseptic solution, and then insert a small needle—this might cause a brief sting. A small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube. After removing the needle, they will apply a bandage and pressure to the site.

Your blood samples will be sent to a lab for analysis, and you can expect to receive the results within 1-2 days. If you have any questions or concerns about the test, please contact your CLL specialist. 

Track Your CLL Labs 

Are you interested in keeping track of your CLL labs in one place and understanding what is considered normal or abnormal? Click on the link below to access your free account! 

Track My CLL Labs

To learn about other tests you may need as a person with CLL, click here. 

Summary 

In summary, a comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) is a blood test that can benefit people with CLL. It tests for 14 chemicals to assess the health of the liver and kidneys, blood sugar levels, and fluid/electrolyte balance. The results from this test may impact your CLL treatment options. For example, if the test results indicate you have poor kidney health, you may be advised to avoid venetoclax as it increases your risk for a side effect called tumor lysis syndrome. 

Sources: 

• Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)

• What is a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)?

• Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) Guidelines