Which of the following is included as a measured analyte in a Basic Metabolic Panel?

• A. Calcium
• B. Albumin
• C. Bilirubin
• D. AST

Answer: (A)

The basic metabolic panel measures minerals and electrolytes to assess kidney function, hydration, acid-base status, and energy metabolism. Calcium is included because it’s a key mineral routinely evaluated alongside the other metabolic components in the panel. Albumin, bilirubin, and AST are liver-related tests and proteins typically added in a comprehensive metabolic panel, not in the basic panel. So calcium is the analyte that belongs in the Basic Metabolic Panel.