Faecal calprotectin testing is recommended by NICE as an option to help distinguish between inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, and non-inflammatory bowel diseases, such as irritable bowel syndrome.
Faecal calprotectin is a substance that is released into the intestines in excess when there is any inflammation there.
Lothian data support use of calprotectin in those aged <50 BUT a cut off of age <40 has been used to align with NHS Scotland/HIS guidelines
| <50 µg/g | NORMAL- TREAT as IBS (see separate guidance opens a new window) |
| Between 50 and 150 µg/g | EQUIVOCAL (see below) |
| >150 µg/g | ABNORMAL- REFER to GI for further assessment |
EQUIVOCAL
Time frame for repeat fecalcalprotectin is at least 4 weeks (Oct 2018)
Many people with irritable bowel syndrome have unnecessary invasive hospital investigations before their condition is diagnosed. Using faecal calprotectin testing will mean most people with irritable bowel syndrome can be diagnosed without the need for these investigations.
Faecal calprotectin is most useful in those under the age of 50 and in the following situations
Recent onset lower GI symptoms e.g.
Supporting clinical decision making
Monitoring disease activity in known IBD
Lothian data support use of calprotectin in those aged <50 BUT a cut off of age <40 has been used to align with NHS Scotland/HIS guidelines
EQUIVOCAL results Time frame for repeat fecalcal protectin is at least 4 weeks (Oct 2018)
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