Blood Testing Guide
Get Complete Metabolic Testing
The right blood tests can reveal your metabolic health years before symptoms appear. Here's what to test and where to get it.
Essential Metabolic Panel
Start HereThe foundation for understanding your metabolic health.
Micronutrient Panel
OptimizationKey nutrients that directly affect metabolic function.
Advanced Panel
Deep DiveFor comprehensive cardiovascular and metabolic assessment.
Pro Tips for Better Testing
Request Fasting Insulin
Many basic panels skip this crucial test. Specifically ask for it—it's the key to HOMA-IR and early insulin resistance detection.
Get RBC Magnesium, Not Serum
Serum magnesium only shows 0.3% of body stores. RBC magnesium is more accurate for tissue status. (Not available in Hungary)
Always Test Ferritin with CRP
Ferritin rises with inflammation. Without CRP context, you can't tell if high ferritin means iron overload or just inflammation.
Test Vitamin D in Fall/Winter
Your levels are lowest from November to March. Testing in summer may give false reassurance.
Fast Properly (12+ Hours)
For accurate insulin and lipid results, fast 12-14 hours. Water and black coffee are fine.
Special Considerations
Metformin Users
Add Vitamin B12 annually
22% develop B12 deficiency. Symptoms mimic diabetic neuropathy.
Carnivore/High-Meat Dieters
Ferritin + hsCRP every 3-6 months
High iron intake can accumulate. Monitor and donate blood if needed.
Plant-Based Dieters
B12, Ferritin, Zinc, Omega-3 Index
Higher risk of deficiency in these nutrients from plant-only sources.
Statin Users
Consider CoQ10 levels
Statins deplete CoQ10. May explain muscle symptoms.
Where to Get Tested
🇺🇸United States
No doctor visit required. Order online, visit any LabCorp location.
Visit →Similar service with Quest Diagnostics locations.
Request specific tests during annual physical. May require diagnosis codes.
🇭🇺Magyarország
Országos hálózat, online időpontfoglalás.
Prémium szolgáltatás, gyors eredmények.
Szakorvosi beutalóval. Nem minden vizsgálat érhető el.
CPT Codes for Insurance
Use these codes when requesting tests from your provider or filing claims
| Test | CPT Code | Self-Pay Range |
|---|---|---|
| Comprehensive Metabolic Panel | 80053 | $15-30 |
| Lipid Panel | 80061 | $20-40 |
| Fasting Glucose | 82947 | $5-15 |
| Fasting Insulin | 83525 | $25-50 |
| HbA1c | 83036 | $20-40 |
| Vitamin D (25-OH) | 82306 | $40-80 |
| Vitamin B12 | 82607 | $20-40 |
| Ferritin | 82728 | $20-40 |
| hsCRP | 86141 | $30-60 |
| Uric Acid | 84550 | $10-20 |
| GGT | 82977 | $15-30 |
| ALT (SGPT) | 84460 | $10-20 |
| AST (SGOT) | 84450 | $10-20 |
| ApoB | 82172 | $30-60 |
| Lp(a) | 83695 | $40-80 |
| Complete Iron Panel | 83540, 83550, 84466 | $40-80 |
CPT codes may vary. Self-pay prices are approximate ranges for direct-to-consumer labs.
Ready to Order Your Tests?
Metabolicum is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before ordering tests.