Calprotectin stool test

Overview

A calprotectin stool test measures the level of a protein called calprotectin in your stool (poop). Calprotectin is released by white blood cells when there is inflammation in your gut. This test helps doctors find out if your digestive symptoms are caused by inflammation, like in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or by other conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Yes, this test is commonly used for people who have ongoing symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, or blood in the stool. It is a standard first step in investigating suspected inflammatory bowel disease.

The test is typically done in people of all ages who have chronic (long-lasting) digestive symptoms that could be due to inflammation in the gut.

Symptoms

Causes

Main causes

• High calprotectin levels are caused by inflammation in the gut. This can be from inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis), infections, or other inflammatory conditions.
• Low calprotectin levels suggest the symptoms are likely not due to significant gut inflammation, and conditions like irritable bowel syndrome may be considered.

Risk factors

• Family history of inflammatory bowel disease
• Smoking (especially for Crohn's disease)

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have severe abdominal pain, high fever, or heavy rectal bleeding, seek emergency care right away.
• If you are vomiting blood or unable to keep fluids down.

Book a routine appointment if:

• Make an appointment with your doctor if you have ongoing diarrhea, abdominal pain, or blood in your stool for more than a few days.
• If you have unexplained weight loss or severe tiredness.

Diagnosis

The test is done by collecting a small sample of your stool in a clean container. Your doctor will give you instructions and a container. You bring the sample to a lab, where they measure the amount of calprotectin.

Tests that may be done

• Calprotectin stool test
• Complete blood count (CBC) to check for infection or anemia
• C-reactive protein (CRP) blood test to measure general inflammation
• Stool culture to rule out infection

What to expect at your appointment

The test is simple and not painful. You collect the stool sample at home or sometimes at the clinic. Results usually come back in a few days. High levels may lead to further tests, such as a colonoscopy, to look inside your bowel. Your doctor will explain the results and next steps.

Treatment

Treatment depends on what the test shows. If calprotectin is high and you are diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease, treatment focuses on reducing inflammation and controlling symptoms. If the levels are normal and no inflammation is found, treatment may focus on managing conditions like irritable bowel syndrome with lifestyle changes.

Self-care at home

• Keep a symptom diary to track what triggers your symptoms (certain foods, stress, etc.).
• Stay hydrated, especially if you have diarrhea.
• Adjust your diet with guidance from a healthcare provider or dietitian (for example, avoiding very fatty or spicy foods).
• Find ways to manage stress, such as relaxation exercises or gentle activity.

Medical treatments

If inflammation is found, doctors may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications, medications that calm the immune system, or other therapies to control the disease. Sometimes antibiotics are used if an infection is present. All treatments should be discussed with your healthcare provider. Never change or stop medications without medical advice.

Living with this condition

If you have a condition causing inflammation in your gut, you can still live a full life. Work with your healthcare team to find a treatment plan that works for you. Learn to recognize early signs of a flare and have a plan to manage it.

Lifestyle tips

• Eat balanced meals and avoid known trigger foods.
• Get regular, gentle exercise like walking or yoga.
• Get enough sleep and rest.
• Manage stress with relaxation techniques or counseling.

Diet and exercise

No single diet works for everyone. A dietitian can help you find what suits you. Some people find low-fiber foods helpful during flares, while others benefit from probiotics. Exercise can help reduce stress and keep your immune system healthy, but listen to your body and rest when needed.

Prevention

There is no known way to prevent the need for a calprotectin test, as it is a tool to diagnose underlying problems. However, you can reduce your risk of developing inflammatory bowel disease by not smoking and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, but this does not guarantee prevention.

Vaccines

Some people with inflammatory bowel disease may need certain vaccines (like the flu shot or pneumonia vaccine) because of their medications. Discuss vaccinations with your doctor.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening for inflammatory bowel disease in the general population. The calprotectin test is used when symptoms appear.

Complications

If left untreated

• If inflammation in the gut is left untreated, it can lead to serious damage to the bowel wall, causing strictures (narrowing), fistulas (abnormal connections), or abscesses.
• Long-term inflammation increases the risk of colon cancer.
• Severe diarrhea can lead to dehydration and malnutrition.

Long-term outlook

With proper diagnosis and treatment, most people with gut inflammation can manage their symptoms and lead active lives. Early testing helps start treatment sooner, which can prevent complications. Your healthcare team will work with you to find the best plan for your situation.

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