Calprotectin, Feces
Use
Calprotectin is a biomarker used for evaluating patients suspected of having a gastrointestinal inflammatory process. It helps to distinguish between inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome when used along with other diagnostic methods such as endoscopy, histology, and imaging. Elevated levels of calprotectin in feces indicate increased neutrophils in the gastrointestinal tract, suggesting inflammation.
Special Instructions
The test uses a stool container for specimen submission, and additional specimens are required for multiple tests except for the ELASF test. If ordering without an electronic system, fill out the General Request or Gastroenterology and Hepatology Test Request form.
Limitations
While elevated fecal calprotectin levels can indicate gastrointestinal inflammation, they are not diagnostic solely for IBD. Normal levels do not exclude IBD, and elevations can occur in other conditions like celiac disease, colorectal cancer, and other infections. Variability in results may occur due to non-homogenous distribution of calprotectin in fecal material, especially in high concentration samples.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (ELISA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 38445-3
- 38445-3
Result Turnaround Time
3-5 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Stool
Volume
5 g
Minimum Volume
1 g
Container
Stool container, Small (Random), 4 oz Random (T288)
Collection Instructions
Collect a fresh random fecal specimen, no preservatives. If immediate shipping is not possible, freeze specimen and ship frozen. Refrigerated or thawed specimens older than 72 hours are rejected.
Storage Instructions
Preferred shipping temperature is frozen; refrigerated specimens must be kept at 72 hours max.
Causes for Rejection
Specimens collected from diapers
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 72 hours |
| Frozen | 7 days |