FECAL CALPROTECTIN

Fecal calprotectin is a laboratory test that measures the level of calprotectin in the stool. Calprotectin is a protein released by neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, during inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. The test is primarily used to detect and monitor inflammation in the intestines, helping in the diagnosis and management of conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes diseases like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. 
Some of the common symptoms that prompt the need for a fecal calprotectin test are: 
Intermittent or constant abdominal pain and cramping 
Frequent diarrhoea or bowel movements 
Blood in the stool after bowel movements 
Sudden weight loss 
Feeling tired or lacking energy 
Low red blood cell count 
To perform the fecal calprotectin test, a small stool sample is required. The sample can be collected at home using a sterile container provided by the laboratory. It is important to take hygienic measures for proper collection and avoid any contamination. Once the stool sample is collected, it is transported to the laboratory for analysis. The calprotectin level in the sample is measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique. 
If the fecal calprotectin test is positive, that is, if it indicates inflammation, further evaluation is recommended. Treatment options for inflammatory bowel disease may include medication, lifestyle modifications, and in rare cases, surgery. It is important to consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and a personalised treatment plan. 

Opting for the test early has some benefits including: 
Accurate assessment: Early detection of inflammation in the intestines helps in accurate diagnosis and timely treatment. 
Preventing complications: Early intervention can prevent complications associated with untreated inflammatory bowel disease. 
Better disease management: Timely diagnosis allows for better disease management, leading to improved quality of life. 
Minimising symptoms: With early treatment, symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhoea, and rectal bleeding can be minimised or controlled effectively. 
Alleviating anxiety: Early diagnosis provides clarity and relief from uncertainties, reducing anxiety and stress associated with undiagnosed symptoms.