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.

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Gastrointestinal Health

Clinical microbiology plays a crucial role in individual and community health. Because most microbes living on or within the body are beneficial, distinguishing those that are disease-producing is a critical function of a clinical microbiology laboratory.

Doctor's Data bridges traditional clinical microbiology with complementary medicine, providing world-class diagnostic microbiology testing that helps you assess digestive and absorptive functions, detect pathogens or parasites and identify specific bacteria and yeast. Through specimens collected from a variety of body sites and the use of advanced assays and technology, Doctor's Data determines what microorganisms are present and which may be causing infection. Our painstaking approach can help you select the most appropriate antimicrobial therapy and the comprehensive nature of our testing represents real value for your patients and practice.

Detailed Information

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.

Before You Start:

Please read all of the directions, and familiarize yourself with the collection procedures. If you are taking antifungal or antibiotic medications, please finish the course of medication, and then wait three days before starting this collection.

Collection Instructions: here