Fecal Calprotectin, Stool

Also known as Stool Calprotectin, Fecal Calprotectin

₹2849~~₹3000~~ 5% Off

You need to provide

Stool

This test is for

Male, Female

Test Preparation

Clinical history is preferred.
A morning sample is preferred.

Understanding Fecal Calprotectin, Stool

What is Fecal Calprotectin, Stool?

The Fecal Calprotectin, Stool test measures the level of calprotectin, a protein released by white blood cells, in the stool or feces. This test detects inflammation in the intestines and can help diagnose and monitor inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

Fecal matter/stool can provide important information about conditions affecting your gut or gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The Fecal Calprotectin, Stool test is a non-invasive biomarker that allows the evaluation of intestinal inflammation caused by conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, and differentiates it from other non-inflammatory diseases, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Fecal Calprotectin may also be associated with other disorders such as celiac disease, colorectal cancer, and gastrointestinal infections, which also show inflammation of the gut.

The Fecal Calprotectin, Stool test can help differentiate between inflammatory and non-inflammatory bowel conditions. Higher than normal amounts of fecal calprotectin are usually associated with active inflammatory diseases, while lower levels indicate other non-inflammatory conditions. Additionally, this test can be used to monitor the effectiveness of ongoing treatment for IBD, look for recurrence or relapse, and adjust treatment plans accordingly. This test can also help determine whether an endoscopy is indicated if IBD is suspected.

Your doctor may suggest getting the Fecal Calprotectin, Stool test if you notice symptoms of IBD, such as chronic diarrhea, abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, weight loss, and fatigue. The test is not a specific or diagnostic test for IBD but may help evaluate the degree of inflammation. It should be noted that additional blood and stool tests may be performed if the doctor suspects certain conditions that might be causing the symptoms.

It is advisable to avoid alcohol, nicotine-containing products, and certain medications like anti-inflammatory drugs before getting tested to maintain test accuracy. No other special preparations are required before getting the Fecal Calprotectin, Stool done. However, you are still advised to follow your doctor's instructions closely.

Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. Narrate your complete medical history to help the doctor correlate your clinical and laboratory findings. The results will help them determine your medical condition and formulate your treatment plan.

What is Fecal Calprotectin, Stool used for?

The Fecal Calprotectin, Stool test is done to:

Detect inflammation in the intestine if you exhibit symptoms like bloody or watery diarrhea or abdominal cramps, with or without fever, lasting more than a few days.
Differentiate IBD from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Monitor and manage ongoing treatment for IBD.

What does Fecal Calprotectin, Stool measure?

The Fecal Calprotectin, Stool test determines the amount of a protein called calprotectin that is released by neutrophils (a type of white blood cell). Whenever there is inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, neutrophils move to the particular area and release calprotectin, resulting in an increased level in the stool. Therefore, this test is a great way to detect inflammation in the intestine.

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Fecal Calprotectin, Stool

Frequently Asked Questions about Fecal Calprotectin, Stool

Q. What is the Fecal Calprotectin, Stool test?

The Fecal Calprotectin, Stool test is a non-invasive test that measures the level of calprotectin, a protein in the stool that is associated with inflammation in the intestines. It is used mainly to help differentiate between inflammatory and non-inflammatory bowel diseases.

Q. What special preparations/precautions should I take before this test?

There are no special precautions necessary before taking a Fecal Calprotectin, Stool test.

Q. What do abnormal results of the Fecal Calprotectin, Stool test indicate?

Abnormal results of the Fecal Calprotectin, Stool test may indicate the presence of inflammation in the digestive system, particularly in the intestines. It may indicate inflammatory conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), namely Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Abnormal levels may also occur in other disorders such as celiac disease, colorectal cancer, and gastrointestinal infections, which may also be associated with neutrophilic inflammation.

Q. What is IBD?

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a term that describes disorders involving chronic inflammation of digestive tract tissues. There are two types of IBD, namely ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.

Q. What is IBS? How do I know if I have IBS?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common motility disorder that affects the stomach and intestines, also called the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). Symptoms include cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation, or both may be suggestive of IBS.

Q. Can I take this test at home?

Yes, Tata 1mg provides convenient, hassle-free home sample collection for Fecal Calprotectin, Stool.

Q. What factors can affect the levels of fecal calprotectin?

Aging, diet, prolonged use of some medications, consumption of alcohol or nicotine-containing products, and the presence of other conditions affecting the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) can affect the levels of fecal calprotectin. Certain medications, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), proton pump inhibitors, and some antibiotics, can also increase calprotectin levels if used for a long duration.

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