Measurement of fecal calprotectin may possibly become of value as a marker for colorectal cancer, although calprotectin, similar to fecal occult blood (FOB) tests, is a non-specific test for colorectal pathology, also being elevated in inflammatory bowel diseases. Further investigation of its specificity is therefore needed. MeSH terms Adult Aged

Faecal calprotectin has been widely proposed as a surrogate marker to predict clinical course in patients with IBD. A patient with asymptomatic IBD with a high faecal calprotectin level has an 80% chance of a clinical relapse in the next 6 months.

10 to 50 or 60 μg/mg

The fecal calprotectin test is used to measure the level of calprotectin, a protein released by white blood cells in the intestines, in stool samples. Here's how to interpret the results: Normal Range: The normal range for fecal calprotectin levels typically falls below a certain threshold, which may vary depending on the laboratory and the assay method used. Normal levels generally indicate the absence of significant inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. Elevated Fecal Calprotectin Levels: Elevated fecal calprotectin levels suggest the presence of inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, particularly in the colon (large intestine). Interpretation: Elevated levels may be seen in various inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Other conditions associated with gastrointestinal inflammation, such as infectious gastroenteritis, celiac disease, diverticulitis, and colorectal cancer, may also cause elevated calprotectin levels. Clinical Correlation: Interpretation of fecal calprotectin test results should be done in conjunction with the patient's clinical history, symptoms, physical examination findings, and other diagnostic tests. It's important to consider factors such as recent use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), as these medications may affect calprotectin levels. Additional diagnostic tests, such as colonoscopy, imaging studies, and serological tests, may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis and identify the underlying cause of inflammation. Management Implications: Elevated fecal calprotectin levels may prompt further evaluation and management, particularly in patients with suspected or known inflammatory bowel disease. Treatment strategies for inflammatory bowel disease and other conditions causing gastrointestinal inflammation may include anti-inflammatory medications, immunosuppressive agents, dietary modifications, and lifestyle changes. Serial monitoring of fecal calprotectin levels may be used to assess response to treatment and disease activity over time. Prognostic Value: Fecal calprotectin levels may also have prognostic value in predicting disease relapse or complications in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. Lowering calprotectin levels through effective treatment may be associated with improved clinical outcomes and reduced risk of disease progression. Interpretation of fecal calprotectin test results should be performed by healthcare providers familiar with gastrointestinal disorders and inflammatory bowel diseases. It's essential to consider the clinical context and other relevant factors when interpreting test results and determining appropriate management strategies.

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