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  4. Faecal Calprotectin Test: Detecting Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Faecal Calprotectin Test: Detecting Inflammatory Bowel Disease

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The faecal calprotectin test is a non-invasive stool test used to detect inflammation in the intestines, making it an essential tool for diagnosing Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. It measures the level of calprotectin, a protein released by white blood cells in response to inflammation. High calprotectin levels indicate active inflammation in the gut, helping to distinguish IBD from non-inflammatory conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The test is simple to conduct at home, with results providing critical information for diagnosis and monitoring disease activity.

  • What is the Faecal Calprotectin Test?
    • The faecal calprotectin test measures the concentration of calprotectin, a protein released by white blood cells, in the stool.
    • It helps to detect inflammation in the intestines, which is a hallmark of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).
  • Why is the Faecal Calprotectin Test Important?
    • It is commonly used to differentiate IBD from non-inflammatory conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
    • High levels of calprotectin in stool indicate active inflammation, which can be due to Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
    • It is a non-invasive test, making it preferable over more invasive procedures like colonoscopy in certain cases.
  • How is the Test Conducted?
    • The test involves collecting a small sample of stool, usually done at home.
    • The stool is then sent to a laboratory where the calprotectin levels are measured.
    • Elevated results typically indicate the presence of inflammation in the intestines.
  • Interpreting Results:
    • Normal levels: A normal calprotectin level generally rules out significant intestinal inflammation.
    • Elevated levels: Higher levels suggest active IBD or infection and may require further diagnostic testing or treatment adjustments.
    • Monitoring IBD: The test is also useful for monitoring disease activity in people with IBD, helping guide treatment decisions.
  • When Should the Test be Used?
    • It’s recommended when a patient presents with chronic gastrointestinal symptoms, like abdominal pain, diarrhea, or weight loss, especially when IBD is suspected.

Recommended Tests

  1. Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR): This blood test measures inflammation and is often used alongside the faecal calprotectin test to evaluate the presence of inflammatory conditions like IBD.
  1. Complete Blood Count (CBC): A CBC test can help detect anemia or infection, both common in patients with IBD, providing additional information on overall health.

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