When should you take a calprotectin test?

A calprotectin test is needed when you suffer from persistent intestinal symptoms that may indicate inflammation in your gastrointestinal tract. This protein, which is released during inflammation, can be found in increased amounts in stools and is an important marker for conditions such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis and other inflammatory bowel diseases.

Symptoms where a calprotectin test may be needed

It is wise to do a calprotectin test if you suffer from one or more of the following symptoms:

• Chronic diarrhoea or fluctuating stools with no apparent cause.
• Persistent abdominal pain or cramps, especially if accompanied by other intestinal symptoms.
• Blood or mucus in the stools, which may indicate inflammation or damage to the intestinal wall.
• Unexplained weight loss, which may be a sign of an underlying condition.
• Bloating, nausea or decreased appetite, which may be associated with inflammation in the intestines.

These symptoms can indicate inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis, as well as less serious conditions such as infection or food intolerance. A calprotectin test can help distinguish inflammation-related bowel problems from functional disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (PDS).

When is a calprotectin test recommended?

A calprotectin test is especially recommended in the following situations:

1. For persistent or recurrent intestinal complaints

If your intestinal symptoms persist for more than a few weeks and do not improve with dietary adjustments or medication, a calprotectin test may be useful to rule out inflammation.

2. When chronic bowel disease is suspected

People with relatives suffering from Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis have an increased risk of these conditions. A calprotectin test can help determine whether further investigation is needed.

3. To control existing inflammatory bowel disease

In patients with diagnosed intestinal inflammation, the calprotectin test is often used to monitor the effectiveness of treatments. If the values remain high, it may mean that a treatment needs to be adjusted.

4. When in doubt between PDS and inflammatory bowel disease

PDS causes similar symptoms to IBD, but is not accompanied by elevated calprotectin levels. A test can help rule out inflammation to make the correct diagnosis.

5. For symptoms after an intestinal infection

Some intestinal infections can lead to long-term intestinal problems. If symptoms persist after an infection, a calprotectin test can provide insight into possible persistent inflammatory reactions.

What if the calprotectin value is elevated?

If test results show elevated calprotectin levels, it means that inflammation in the intestines is likely. This need not always be serious, but it is a signal that further investigation may be needed. A doctor may decide to perform additional tests, such as a colonoscopy or blood tests, to determine the cause.