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Calprotectin (Faecal)
Test Code: FCA
Special instructions
It is important that a repeat test should only be done after excluding other causes of raised calprotectin such as gut infections, diverticulitis, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, proton pump inhibitors, coeliac disease and cirrhosis.
Sample required
Minimum 1g faeces in a plain container.
Units
mcg/g
Turnaround Time
14
days
Department: Biochemistry
Clinical Application
Interpretation
Initial Faecal calprotectin (FC) result:
FC <100: IBD is unlikely, treat for IBS, repeat if still symptomatic.
FC 100-250: Borderline result. Possible mild inflammation, exclude other causes, repeat in 6 weeks.
FC >250: If undiagnosed, no red flags or suspicion of acute severe IBD, then review in primary care. Repeat if clinically well and the result appears incongruous with clinical picture. If symptoms are significant or worsening refer urgently to gastroenterology.
Repeat Faecal calprotectin (FC) result:
FC >250: Urgent referral to gastroenterology
FC 100-250: Routine referral to gastroenterology
FC 50-100: IBD unlikely but if still symptomatic after pharmacological and dietetic interventions then a routine referral to gastroenterology should be considered.
FC <50: IBD excluded.
Please refer to link below for full clinical guidelines and interpretation.
