Calprotectin
Doctor's Data
Sample type: Stool
Requires fasting: No
At home test
Details
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.
- Calprotectin, Stool
Estimated days for results: Results should arrive 4 to 6 days after the lab receives samples.
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.
4–6 business days
- Add-on: Beta-glucuronidase
- Add-on: Elastase
- Add-on: H. Pylori Antigen
- Add-on: Lactoferrin
- Add-on: Lysozyme
- Add-on: Secretory IgA
- Add-on: Zonulin Family Protein
procedures.
If you are taking antifungal or antibiotic medications, please
finish the course of medication, and then wait three days before starting this
collection.
Please refrain from taking digestive enzymes, antacids, and aspirin
for two days prior to and during the specimen collection, unless otherwise
instructed by your physician.
Never discontinue prescription medications without first consulting your physician.
State restrictions:
Patient can't order this test if they are located in Hawaii, Puerto Rico, New Jersey, New York, or Rhode Island
