Faecal Calprotection - testing for inflammatory bowel disease
Channel: Pathology Tests Explained
Date: 2023-03-13

This test detects inflammation in the intestines from a sample of your poo and is used to diagnose and monitor inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis). Find out from an expert how the test works and what it can show. 

Calprotectin is a protein produced by white blood cells –the cells involved in your immune system. They release calprotectin when you have inflammation. If the amount of calprotectin is higher than it should be in your poo, this indicates you have inflammation in your bowel. Calprotectin can’t show exactly where the inflammation is, so more tests will be needed to do this.