What abnormalities can be diagnosed using a Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP)?

The Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP) is a commonly ordered blood test that provides information about an individual's metabolism, including kidney function, electrolyte balance, and blood sugar levels. It typically measures levels of several key substances: sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, glucose, and sometimes calcium.

Hypoglycemia refers to low blood sugar levels, while hyperglycemia describes high blood sugar levels. The BMP specifically measures glucose levels, which allows for the diagnosis of conditions like hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia. Thus, hypoglycemia is indeed a direct measure from a BMP.

On the other hand, hypokalemia pertains to low potassium levels, which is also included in the BMP. The test measures serum potassium levels, making it effective in identifying this electrolyte abnormality.

While hypocalcemia is a significant electrolyte imbalance, it is not typically measured in a standard BMP, as calcium levels are often evaluated in a separate panel called a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) or specifically checked if indicated.

Therefore, the correct response effectively identifies conditions that can be diagnosed by a BMP, emphasizing its utility in assessing both glucose and potassium levels.