Faecal calprotectin reflects neutrophils in the gut lumen from any cause. NSAIDs and proton pump inhibitors commonly raise it, as do gastrointestinal infection, colorectal neoplasia, diverticular disease and microscopic colitis.
Values also fluctuate. A borderline result is best repeated, off NSAIDs where possible and outside an acute infection, before it drives endoscopy or a change in treatment.
- Ask about NSAID and PPI use when interpreting calprotectin.
- Repeat borderline values before acting.
- Exclude infection in acute diarrhoea with a raised result.
- Consider colorectal cancer in older patients with a raised calprotectin.
Why it matters
Calprotectin is used as a gatekeeper to colonoscopy, so false positives and negatives both carry cost.
Read the rest in the app
You have read your two free briefings this month. The app carries all 27 specialties, every morning, free — and this finding is waiting in it.
Scan to keep reading on your phone. No account needed to start.
Tomorrow morning, before your first patient
One edition a day for gastroenterology & hepatology, written by the desk, every claim tied to its paper. Six minutes.
Get the app — free