Understanding faecal calprotectin results

Overview

Faecal calprotectin is a protein found in your poo. When there is inflammation (swelling) in your gut (intestines), the level of this protein goes up. This test is used to help tell the difference between inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, and other conditions that cause similar symptoms, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It is not a test for cancer. A high result may suggest active inflammation, while a low result makes IBD less likely. Your doctor will use the result together with other information to make a diagnosis.

Faecal calprotectin testing is commonly used when a person has persistent bowel symptoms. Elevated results are seen in around 10-15% of people tested, but this varies depending on the population.

This test is used for people of all ages who have symptoms such as chronic diarrhoea, abdominal pain, or blood in the stool. It is especially helpful for distinguishing IBD from IBS in adults and children.

Symptoms

Causes

Main causes

• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) – such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis – where the immune system attacks the gut lining, causing inflammation.
• Infections that cause gut inflammation (like bacterial or parasitic infections).
• Use of certain medications (such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs) can cause gut inflammation.
• Coeliac disease (in some cases) may also raise calprotectin levels.

Risk factors

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• You have persistent blood in your stool, especially if it is dark or sticky
• You have severe abdominal pain that does not go away
• You are losing weight without trying
• You have diarrhoea that lasts more than a few weeks

Book a routine appointment if:

• You have mild but ongoing changes in your bowel habits (such as looser stools or constipation)

Diagnosis

The faecal calprotectin test is a stool test. You collect a small sample of your poo in a container provided by your doctor or hospital. The sample is sent to a lab where the level of calprotectin is measured. Results usually come back within a few days to a week.

Tests that may be done

• Faecal calprotectin test (stool test)
• Full blood count (to check for signs of infection or anaemia)
• C-reactive protein (CRP) blood test (to measure inflammation in the body)
• Stool cultures (to rule out infection)

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause of an abnormal faecal calprotectin result. If the result is normal (low) and symptoms are due to IBS, treatment focuses on symptom management. If the result is high and IBD is diagnosed, the goal is to reduce inflammation and control symptoms. Your doctor will create a plan tailored to you.

Self-care at home

• Keep a symptoms diary to track triggers, such as certain foods, stress, or activity levels.
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals if you have IBS.
• Stay well hydrated, especially if you have diarrhoea.
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques, exercise, or talking to a counsellor.

Living with this condition

If you have a chronic gut condition, like IBD or severe IBS, daily management involves monitoring your symptoms, taking prescribed medicines consistently, and avoiding triggers. Many people learn to plan their day around toilet access and maintain a flexible schedule. Support from your healthcare team and loved ones can help you adapt.

Lifestyle tips

• Get regular exercise – gentle activities like walking, swimming, or yoga can improve mood and digestion.
• Prioritise sleep – aim for 7-9 hours per night to support your immune system.
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol, as they can worsen gut inflammation.
• Consider stress-reducing practices like mindfulness, meditation, or therapy.

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables (cooked if raw causes discomfort), lean proteins, and whole grains is generally recommended. For IBS, a low-FODMAP diet under guidance of a dietitian may help identify trigger foods. For IBD, there is no one-size-fits-all diet, but some people find that avoiding very spicy, fatty, or high-fibre foods during flares helps. Always stay hydrated. Exercise is safe and beneficial, but listen to your body – rest when you need to.

Prevention

Faecal calprotectin is a test, not a condition, so it is not something you prevent. However, you can reduce your risk of developing inflammatory bowel disease or IBS? The exact causes of IBD are not fully understood, but you may lower your risk by avoiding smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and eating a balanced diet. For IBS, managing stress and avoiding known trigger foods may help prevent symptoms. There is no guaranteed way to prevent these conditions.

Screening programmes

If you have a family history of IBD, you may benefit from earlier evaluation if you develop symptoms. However, there is no routine screening test for IBD. The faecal calprotectin test itself is sometimes used as a way to decide who needs further investigation, especially in primary care.

Complications

If left untreated

• Persistent inflammation from untreated IBD can damage the gut lining over time, leading to scarring, strictures, or fistulas.
• In severe cases, untreated IBD can cause malnutrition, anaemia, or increase the risk of bowel cancer.
• Severe diarrhoea can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
• Long-term uncontrolled disease may affect growth in children and quality of life in all ages.
• If the underlying cause of a high faecal calprotectin is an infection, not treating it can lead to spread of the infection.

Find support

International organisations

• Crohn's & Colitis Foundation (USA)
• International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD)

Local organisations

• Crohn’s & Colitis UK · United Kingdom

Helplines

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