Fecal Calprotectin, Stool

Calprotectin is a heterocomplex composed of the calcium and zinc binding proteins S100A8 and S100A9. It constitutes more than 60% of total protein in the cytosol of neutrophils, which infiltrate the intestinal mucosa as part of the inflammatory response. Consequently, organic diseases of the bowel result in elevated levels of fecal calprotectin. The concentration of calprotectin in stool reflects the number of neutrophils present and provides an indicator of the severity of intestinal inflammation. Fecal calprotectin is measured as part of the diagnostic evaluation and disease management of organic intestinal diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Patients with IBD fluctuate between active (inflammatory) and inactive stages of the disease. These stages must be considered when interpreting results of the fecal calprotectin assay. Other intestinal diseases, including numerous gastrointestinal infections and colorectal cancer, can result in elevated levels of calprotectin. Therefore, a diagnosis of active IBD should be made only in the context of other diagnostic testing and the clinical status of the patient. Fecal calprotectin is an indicator of neutrophilic presence in the stool and is not specific for IBD. [Adopted with modification from the manufacturer's package insert Diasorin LIAISON Calprotectin Version CE – 53198 - 2020-04]

Clinical Indications:

• Assessment of suspected gastrointestinal tract inflammation
• Differential diagnosis of IBD (inflammatory bowel disease) and IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), when considered in the context of other diagnostic procedures
• Monitoring of IBD activity