Understanding Faecal Calprotectin and Its Related Markers

Faecal calprotectin is a protein found in the stool that is used as a marker to detect inflammation in the intestines. This test is particularly useful for distinguishing between inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), two conditions with similar symptoms but different underlying causes.

What is Faecal Calprotectin?

Faecal calprotectin is a protein that originates from white blood cells in the intestines. Its presence in stool indicates inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. This test is non-invasive and can provide valuable information about intestinal health. A normal level is generally considered to be less than 50 micrograms per gram (µg/g), although this can vary depending on the specific assay used.

Why Faecal Calprotectin Matters

The main reason faecal calprotectin is measured is to differentiate between inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBD, which includes conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, involves chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. In contrast, IBS is a functional disorder without inflammation. Elevated levels of faecal calprotectin are more indicative of IBD than IBS.

Factors That Affect Faecal Calprotectin Levels

Several factors can influence faecal calprotectin levels. These include:

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis often result in elevated levels.
• Infections: Certain gastrointestinal infections can temporarily raise calprotectin levels.
• Medications: Some medications, particularly non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may increase levels.
• Age and Assay Variability: Different assays may have varying normal ranges, and age can also affect levels.

Reading Faecal Calprotectin Results

Interpreting faecal calprotectin results can be complex, as there is no single reference range for adults. A result below 50 µg/g is generally considered normal, but this is assay-dependent. Higher levels may suggest inflammation, often pointing towards IBD rather than IBS. However, a healthcare provider should evaluate results in the context of symptoms and other tests.

Frequently asked questions

What do high levels of faecal calprotectin mean? High levels of faecal calprotectin typically indicate inflammation in the intestines, often associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Can faecal calprotectin levels fluctuate? Yes, levels can fluctuate due to factors like infections, medications, and changes in disease activity.

Is the faecal calprotectin test painful? No, the test is non-invasive and involves collecting a stool sample at home.

Can diet affect faecal calprotectin levels? While diet can influence gut health, it typically does not directly affect calprotectin levels.

How often should faecal calprotectin be measured? Frequency depends on individual circumstances and should be guided by a healthcare provider.

When to see a doctor

If your faecal calprotectin levels are elevated, or if you experience symptoms like persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain, or weight loss, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider. They can help determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate management.

Decisions about your health should always be made in consultation with your healthcare provider.