How is calprotectin measured?

Calprotectin is measured through a stool test. This test analyses the amount of calprotectin in the stool to determine whether there is inflammation in the intestines. The test is used to distinguish between functional intestinal complaints and organic inflammatory diseases such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

Why is calprotectin measured in stools?

Calprotectin is a protein released from white blood cells during an inflammatory reaction in the gastrointestinal tract. Because it is not broken down during digestion, it is measurable in the stool. Elevated calprotectin levels may indicate active inflammation in the intestines.

This measurement is especially useful at:

• Distinguishing irritable bowel syndrome (PDS) from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
• Monitoring patients with chronic intestinal diseases.
• Determining whether a further bowel examination, such as a colonoscopy, is needed.

How does a calprotectin test work?

Calprotectin is measured using a stool sample. This can be done in two ways:

1. Calprotectin self-test for home use

A calprotectin self-test can be performed at home. This involves the user collecting a small amount of stool and placing it in a test cassette with buffer solution. The test cassette gives a visual result within minutes, similar to a pregnancy test. This gives an indication of elevated or normal calprotectin levels, but an elevated result requires a laboratory test.

2. Laboratory tests via the GP or specialist

A calprotectin test in the laboratory provides an accurate quantitative measurement of calprotectin values. The procedure is as follows:

1. The patient receives a sterile collection tube and collects a small stool sample.
2. The sample is sent to a medical laboratory.
3. An ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) test is performed in the laboratory. This test determines exactly how much calprotectin is present.
4. The results are forwarded to the doctor, who assesses them and recommends further investigation or treatment if necessary.

What do the results of a calprotectin test mean?

The result of a calprotectin test is given in micrograms per gram of stool (µg/g). Interpretation varies by laboratory, but the general guidelines are:

• Low value (< 50 µg/g): No indication of inflammation. Likely functional intestinal symptoms such as PDS.
• Moderately elevated value (50-200 µg/g): Possible mild inflammation or irritation. A repeat test may be necessary.
• Highly elevated value (> 200 µg/g): High risk of active inflammation, as in Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Medical examination is necessary.

How reliable is a calprotectin test?

A laboratory test has high reliability and is considered the standard method for measuring intestinal inflammation. The test’s sensitivity and specificity are around 95%, meaning it gives a very reliable indication of inflammatory activity.

Self-tests are useful as an initial screening, but have lower accuracy and are not recommended as a definitive diagnostic method. If the value is elevated, it is advised to contact a doctor for further investigation.

Calprotectine Test

€19.99