Fecal calprotectin

Fecal Calprotectin

We remind you that independent interpretation of the results is unacceptable, the information provided below is for reference purposes only.

Fecal calprotectin is a protein found in neutrophils, a type of white blood cell. It is released during inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. Measuring the level of fecal calprotectin can help diagnose and monitor inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

Structure and Function of Calprotectin

Calprotectin is a heterodimer composed of two protein subunits, S100A8 and S100A9. It plays a crucial role in the immune system's response to inflammation and infection. Calprotectin has antimicrobial properties and can also regulate the inflammatory process by binding to various targets.

Table 1: Components of Calprotectin

During intestinal inflammation, neutrophils migrate to the affected area and release calprotectin. The protein is then excreted in feces, making it a useful marker for assessing intestinal inflammation. Elevated levels of fecal calprotectin can indicate the presence of IBD or other inflammatory conditions of the gastrointestinal tract.

Role of Fecal Calprotectin in Diagnostics

Fecal calprotectin is a protein released by inflammatory cells in the gut. Its level in stool is an important biomarker for assessing intestinal inflammation. Elevated levels of fecal calprotectin can indicate the presence of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, as well as other gastrointestinal disorders.

Indications for Fecal Calprotectin Testing

Fecal calprotectin testing is recommended in the following cases:

• Distinguishing inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) from other gastrointestinal conditions: Elevated fecal calprotectin levels can help differentiate IBD from other conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which do not involve intestinal inflammation.
• Monitoring disease activity in IBD patients: Fecal calprotectin levels can be used to monitor disease activity in patients with established IBD, helping to guide treatment decisions and assess response to therapy.
• Screening for gastrointestinal inflammation: The test can be used as a non-invasive screening tool for intestinal inflammation in patients with gastrointestinal symptoms, such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, or rectal bleeding.
• Evaluation of treatment response: Fecal calprotectin levels can be measured before and after treatment to assess the effectiveness of various therapeutic interventions for IBD or other inflammatory conditions.

Preparation for Fecal Calprotectin Analysis

Preparing for a fecal calprotectin test usually involves the following steps:

• No special dietary restrictions are required. You can follow your regular diet before the test.
• Avoid taking medications that may interfere with the test results, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or antibiotics, unless instructed otherwise by your healthcare provider.
• Inform your healthcare provider about any ongoing medical conditions or medications you are taking, as they may affect the interpretation of the test results.

Procedure for Sample Collection

The sample collection process for a fecal calprotectin test typically involves the following steps:

• You will receive a sterile container from your healthcare provider or laboratory to collect the stool sample.
• Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or laboratory regarding the proper collection, handling, and storage of the sample.
• Once the sample is collected, it should be delivered to the designated laboratory or healthcare facility as soon as possible.

Sources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5390326/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Faecal_calprotectin
https://www.healthline.com/health/crohns-disease/calprotectin-stool-test
https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/calprotectin-stool-test/
https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2021/0900/p303.html
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6370282/
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/calprotectin-stool-test

IMPORTANT!

It is crucial to remember that the information provided in this section is not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. If you experience symptoms or a worsening condition, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnostic tests and treatment. Only a qualified specialist can provide an accurate diagnosis and determine the appropriate treatment plan. For the most accurate and consistent evaluation of test results, it is recommended to have the tests conducted at the same laboratory, as different laboratories may use varying methods and units of measurement for similar tests.