BMP vs. CMP, CBC differentials, and other test differences
Compare the eight measurements in a BMP with the fourteen in a CMP, understand CBC differentials, and distinguish the two vitamin D tests.
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BMP and CMP: what changes?
A basic metabolic panel (BMP) has eight core measurements. A comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) includes those eight plus six additional measurements. The table compares Labcorp’s BMP (322758) and CMP (322000).
| Measurement | BMP | CMP |
|---|---|---|
| Glucose | Yes | Yes |
| Calcium | Yes | Yes |
| Sodium | Yes | Yes |
| Potassium | Yes | Yes |
| Chloride | Yes | Yes |
| Carbon dioxide, total | Yes | Yes |
| Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) | Yes | Yes |
| Creatinine | Yes | Yes |
| Albumin | No | Yes |
| Total protein | No | Yes |
| Bilirubin, total | No | Yes |
| Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) | No | Yes |
| Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) | No | Yes |
| Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) | No | Yes |
The numbers eight and fourteen describe the core measurements, not every line on a lab report. Labcorp also lists calculated results such as eGFR and the BUN/creatinine ratio; its CMP lists globulin and an albumin/globulin ratio. Do not compare packages by their advertised result count alone.
If a clinician orders a CMP, a BMP omits all six measurements in the second part of the table. If the order is for a BMP, more tests are not automatically necessary. Confirm the requested panel before choosing a price. Sources: Labcorp BMP, Labcorp CMP, and MedlinePlus’s explanation of BMP and CMP.
CBC versus CBC with differential
A complete blood count measures red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, hemoglobin, and hematocrit, among other blood-cell measurements. A white-cell differential adds counts of the individual types of white blood cells. A total white blood cell count alone does not provide that breakdown. Check for “with differential” on the order and retailer listing. Source: MedlinePlus: complete blood count.
Two vitamin D tests with different purposes
The 25-hydroxyvitamin D test is used to assess vitamin D status. The 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D test measures the active form and is used for different questions, including some kidney or calcium problems. It is not the usual test for checking whether someone has enough vitamin D. Compare the full analyte name, not just “vitamin D.” Source: MedlinePlus: vitamin D testing.
Comparing a panel with a separate test
An order for CMP and hemoglobin A1c still needs both tests. The glucose result in a CMP measures blood glucose in that sample; A1c reflects average glucose over roughly two to three months. Check whether a retailer’s package includes A1c explicitly before adding the prices together. Source: MedlinePlus: hemoglobin A1c.
When a listing does not name the measurements
A listing labeled “wellness panel” without a component list is unconfirmed, not a verified match. Ask for the performing laboratory, its test code, and the included measurements. Keep an unknown detail separate from a confirmed omission such as ALT in the BMP above.
Source pages checked September 13, 2026. Laboratory contents do not certify the accuracy of an individual retailer listing.