BMP Test #5 Carbon Dioxide (CO2)

As part of our effort to decode the BMP (Basic Metabolic Profile), we'll take a closer look at the fifth test -- Carbon Dioxide (CO2).

Electrolytes keep your body's fluids in balance. They also help keep your body working normally, including your heart rhythm, muscle contraction, and brain function.

A carbon dioxide test measures the total amount of the three forms of carbon dioxide (bicarbonate, carbonic acid, and dissolved carbon dioxide) in your blood. This test is also called a total carbon dioxide or TCO2 test.

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a gaseous waste product made from metabolism. The blood carries carbon dioxide to your lungs, where it is exhaled. More than 90% of carbon dioxide in your blood exists in the form of bicarbonate (HCO3). The remainder of the carbon dioxide is either dissolved carbon dioxide gas (CO2) or carbonic acid (H2CO3).

Your kidneys and lungs balance the levels of carbon dioxide, bicarbonate, and carbonic acid in the blood.

A carbon dioxide test is often done as part of a group of laboratory blood tests (chemistry screen) to help find the cause of many kinds of symptoms. It is often done if you are having breathing problems.


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