Calprotectin — Stand-Alone Stool Test (DSL)

Description

Calprotectin — Stand-Alone Stool Test

Calprotectin is a calcium-binding protein released by neutrophils (white blood cells) during intestinal inflammation. It is the best-validated non-invasive marker for distinguishing organic bowel disease (IBD — Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis) from functional bowel disorders (IBS) and for monitoring treatment response in inflammatory bowel disease.

Marker Measured:

• Calprotectin (stool): Quantitative measurement of neutrophil-derived inflammatory protein — elevated levels indicate active mucosal inflammation in the gut

Interpretation:

• <50 µg/g: Normal — makes significant IBD unlikely
• 50–200 µg/g: Borderline — may indicate mild inflammation or IBS; consider repeat or further investigation
• >200 µg/g: Elevated — indicates significant intestinal inflammation; IBD or other organic disease should be investigated

Clinical Applications:

• Differentiating IBD from IBS
• Monitoring Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis activity
• Assessing treatment response to anti-inflammatory or biologic therapy
• Guiding decision for colonoscopy

Sample Type:

Stool — single collection.