CHEM-20
Alternate Names : Metabolic Panel 20, Sequential Multi-Channel Analysis with Computer-20, SMA20, SMAC20
Definition
Chem-20 is a group of 20 chemical tests performed on serum (the portion of blood without cells). Electrolytes are ionized salts in blood or tissue fluids (ions are atoms or molecules that carry an electrical charge). Electrolytes in the body include sodium, potassium, chlorine, and many others.
The rest of the tests focus primarily on chemicals related to the body's metabolism and the breakdown of various substances. These are tests that evaluate the function of the liver and kidneys.
Why is the Test Performed?
Blood chemistry measures the levels of a number of chemical substances that are released from various tissues in the body. The amounts of these chemicals in the blood may reflect abnormalities in the tissues secreting them.
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