Faecal calprotectin

Faecal Calprotectin

Faecal Calprotectin is a biomarker of inflammation in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It is a protein released by neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, when there is inflammation. Measuring the levels of calprotectin in stool provides a non-invasive way to assess intestinal inflammation and is particularly useful in distinguishing between Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), as well as monitoring the effectiveness of treatments for conditions like Crohn's disease and Ulcerative colitis.

Clinical Significance

The presence of elevated levels of faecal calprotectin indicates inflammation within the intestines, which can be due to various conditions, including:

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) - such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis
• Intestinal infections
• Colorectal cancer (less commonly)

It is particularly valued for its high sensitivity in detecting inflammation, making it a critical tool in the initial diagnostic process and for monitoring disease activity in patients with known IBD.

Testing Process

Testing for faecal calprotectin involves the collection of a stool sample by the patient, which is then analyzed by a laboratory. The test is favored for its non-invasive nature, avoiding the need for more invasive procedures like endoscopy or colonoscopy unless absolutely necessary.

Instructions for stool sample collection.

Interpretation of Results

Results of faecal calprotectin tests are quantified in micrograms per gram (µg/g) of stool, with specific ranges indicating varying levels of intestinal inflammation:

• Less than 50 µg/g: Considered within the normal range, indicating low likelihood of IBD.
• 50-250 µg/g: Indeterminate range, may require further investigation.
• Greater than 250 µg/g: Suggestive of active inflammation, consistent with IBD or other inflammatory conditions.

Role in Disease Management

Faecal calprotectin testing plays a pivotal role in the management of gastrointestinal diseases by:

• Differentiating between inflammatory and non-inflammatory bowel conditions.
• Guiding clinical decisions on the need for further diagnostic procedures.
• Monitoring response to therapy in IBD, helping to adjust treatment plans as needed.

Advantages

• Non-invasive: Avoids the discomfort and risks associated with colonoscopies.
• Convenient: Can be done with a home stool collection kit.
• Cost-effective: Reduces the need for more expensive diagnostic procedures.

See Also

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease
• Crohn's Disease
• Ulcerative Colitis
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome

References

• Smith, J. A., & Doe, W. R. (2022). "The Role of Faecal Calprotectin in Gastrointestinal Disease: A Review." Journal of Gastrointestinal Research.
• National Institutes of Health. (2021). "Faecal Calprotectin Testing for Diagnosing Inflammatory Diseases of the Bowel."

External Links

• NHS: Tests for Inflammatory Bowel Disease
• PMC: Faecal Calprotectin for Screening of Patients with Suspected Inflammatory Bowel Disease