Calprotectin

What this laboratory test evaluates

Calprotectin is a calcium-binding protein produced by neutrophils and monocytes, and it may be involved in inflammatory signaling. Elevated Calprotectin and fecal Lactoferrin levels indicate the presence of neutrophils and inflammation in the gastrointestinal (GI) mucosa. Calprotectin and Lactoferrin differentiate between irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). IBD includes autoimmune conditions such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis (UC); these conditions may become life-threatening and require lifelong treatment.

Multiple studies have shown fecal Calprotectin and Lactoferrin to be equivalent with respect to clinical sensitivity and specificity. Studies suggest that Calprotectin may correlate more closely with histological (cell microscopy) findings. Lactoferrin may correlate better to macroscopic (endoscopy) findings, and may be the better indicator of impending relapse, elevating 2-3 weeks prior to clinical symptoms.

Chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal mucosa contributes to symptoms of IBD. Chronic stress is known to contribute to symptom flare-ups and increased inflammation. Liver disease or the use of aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medications may elevate Calprotectin levels. Fecal Calprotectin levels may also be increased in newborns.

Additional test information

Calprotectin is a reliable noninvasive marker for differentiating gastrointestinal inflammation associated with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) from inflammation that may be associated with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Such differentiation is very important because IBD can be life-threatening. Monitoring the levels of fecal calprotectin can play an essential role in determining the effectiveness of clinical interventions, and is a good predictor of IBD remission and relapse. Calprotectin provides clinicians with a valuable tool, not only for differentiating IBD from IBS, but also allowing them to monitor and predict treatment outcomes and enabling better management of IBD flare-ups.

Collection and processing

• Sample type: Stool
• Fasting: No
• Estimated laboratory processing: Results should arrive 4 to 6 days after the lab receives samples.

How Sunridge uses laboratory information

Sunridge considers the medical question, symptoms, history, medications, prior results, and whether the finding could change care before recommending testing. A laboratory result is not interpreted in isolation and does not establish a diagnosis by itself.

Before requesting this test

Availability, collection requirements, eligibility, and processing estimates can change. Sunridge reviews each request and, when appropriate, creates the order through Fullscript. Follow the current instructions supplied with the approved order.

Related Sunridge care

Learn how Sunridge approaches Digestive Conditions and ask whether this test is appropriate for your clinical question.