Faecal Calprotectin
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About Faecal Calprotectin
Faecal calprotectin is a test used to measure the levels of calprotectin protein in the stool sample.
The faecal calprotectin test is used to identify inflammation in your intestines. The calprotectin protein is present in small amounts in the stool. When the intestines are inflamed, the immune system emits a certain type of white blood cells which releases calprotectin into the intestines where it combines with the stool. This test is highly specific and sensitive and helps in distinguishing between inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, and non-inflammatory bowel disorders which include irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) which cause similar symptoms
Symptoms of IBD and IBS
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Watery or bloody stools
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Abdominal pain
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Diarrhea
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Constipation
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Bloating
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Fever
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Loss of weight
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Rectal bleeding
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Weakness
What is the faecal calprotectin test used for?
Faecal calprotectin test can be done for many reasons including
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To diagnose intestinal inflammation
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To diagnose irritable bowel syndrome
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To diagnose Crohn’s disease
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To distinguish between IBD and IBS
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To diagnose ulcerative colitis disease
Test preparation
The faecal calprotectin test requires no special preparation. Some medications can also affect the test results, so ensure your doctor is aware of what prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, or dietary supplements you are taking, know the details about pre-test preparations, and make sure to follow instructions closely
Interpretation of the Test Results
The results are given in micrograms per gram (µg/g) .
| Result | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| <50 µg/g | If no other abnormalities are found, then to be treated as IBS |
| 50–150 µg/g | Repeat the test after 4 weeks. If the range still measures between 50–150 µg/g and symptoms persist, refer to a gastroenterologist. |
| >150 µg/g | Refer to gastroenterologist for further investigation |
FAQs on Faecal Calprotectin
You will be provided with a stool collection container. A small sample of stool is collected into the container and sent to the laboratory for analysis.
There are no known risks associated with this test. However, it is important to wash your hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap after sample collection, as stool may contain infectious pathogens.
The faecal calprotectin test results are usually available within 5–7 days after sample collection. This duration may vary depending on the diagnostic laboratory.
No, the faecal calprotectin test cannot be substituted with a blood test. Although blood tests such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) detect inflammation, they do not provide specific information about gastrointestinal inflammation like the faecal calprotectin test.
Calprotectin levels are not influenced by lifestyle changes, as they reflect gastrointestinal inflammation. If inflammation is caused by infection, levels usually return to normal once the infection resolves. In inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), levels fluctuate based on disease activity. In rare cases, elevated calprotectin due to NSAID use returns to normal after discontinuation of the medication.
Faecal Calprotectin
