* This laboratory test requires a consultation before ordering. BOOK HERE.
Method - Stool
The Faecal Calprotectin Stool Test is used to assess inflammation within the digestive tract. Calprotectin is a protein released by immune cells during inflammation, and elevated levels in the stool may indicate irritation or inflammation in the intestines.
This test is commonly used to help distinguish between inflammatory bowel conditions, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, and non-inflammatory digestive conditions such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). It can also help monitor inflammation levels in people already diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Elevated calprotectin levels may be associated with:
- Intestinal inflammation
- Bacterial or gastrointestinal infections
- Crohn’s disease
- Ulcerative colitis
- Infectious colitis
- Gastrointestinal polyps or, less commonly, bowel cancers
Because calprotectin is a marker of intestinal inflammation, it can be a useful screening tool to help determine whether further investigation, such as endoscopy or specialist referral, may be appropriate.
This test may be helpful for people experiencing symptoms such as:
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- Diarrhoea or loose stools
- Bloody stools or rectal bleeding
- Bloating
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fever
- Fatigue or weakness
- Ongoing digestive discomfort
The calprotectin test can be ordered on its own or included as part of a more comprehensive digestive stool analysis (CDSA), which may assess additional gastrointestinal markers.
Analyte Included
- Calprotectin – a marker used to assess intestinal inflammation and help differentiate between inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and non-inflammatory conditions such as IBS.