Markers of bowel inflammation
The symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) can be very similar but they are two very different medical conditions. Historically gastroenterologists have had to use endoscopies to distinguish between the two disorders. Calprotectin tests are used to detect inflammation in the gut which may be caused by Inflammatory Bowel Disease such as Crohn's or ulcerative colitis, and thus can help distinguish between these conditions.
What we test
Calprotectin
Calprotectin is a protein released by a type of white blood cell. When there is inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, white blood cells move to the area and release calprotectin, resulting in an increased level in the stool.
Faecal calprotectin is a marker of gut inflammation, helping to differentiate between inflammatory conditions like Crohn’s disease and non-inflammatory issues like IBS. Elevated levels suggest active inflammation and may warrant further investigation.
Test instructions
Your test kit and all instructions are posted directly to you, and there is no need to visit a collection centre.
Mail your sample back to the lab according to the instructions provided with your kit. Please be aware of our festive season lab closures (Dec 19th 2025 - January 5th 2026) when returning your samples and ensure samples are posted no later than 12th December 2025, or after 2nd January, to allow for processing.
Results for this test available in 2-4 weeks depending on region and will be published in your online dashboard.
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