IBD or IBS? - Fecal Calprotectin Test

IBD or IBS? — Fecal Calprotectin Test

By Simply Diagnostic Lab

The Fecal Calprotectin Test is a vital tool used to differentiate between Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). While both conditions share similar symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and cramping, IBD involves chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, whereas IBS is a functional disorder without inflammation.

Calprotectin is a protein released by white blood cells during inflammation in the intestines. Measuring calprotectin levels in stool provides a non-invasive marker of intestinal inflammation, helping healthcare providers determine whether symptoms are caused by inflammatory conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis (IBD), or by non-inflammatory conditions such as IBS.

Why Choose the Fecal Calprotectin Test?

• Non-invasive and easy: Collect your stool sample comfortably at home with the included collection kit.

• Accurate inflammation marker: Elevated calprotectin levels indicate active inflammation, prompting further investigation or treatment.

• Supports clinical decision-making: Helps doctors decide whether additional tests like colonoscopy are necessary.

• Monitor disease activity: Useful for patients already diagnosed with IBD to track inflammation and treatment response.

• Reduces unnecessary procedures: Helps avoid invasive tests in patients unlikely to have inflammatory disease.

Who Should Consider This Test?

• Individuals with persistent digestive symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, or blood in stool.

• Patients with a family history of IBD or chronic gastrointestinal disorders.

• Those undergoing evaluation for suspected IBD versus IBS.

• Patients already diagnosed with IBD who need to monitor disease activity or response to therapy.

How the Test Works:

• The kit includes all necessary sterile collection devices and detailed instructions for easy sample collection at home.

• Collect a small stool sample as directed, package it securely using the included materials, and return it using the prepaid shipping label.

• Simply Diagnostic Lab performs precise laboratory analysis, and results are delivered confidentially within days.

• Always discuss your results with a healthcare professional to determine the next steps in diagnosis or treatment.

Take Control of Your Digestive Health

Accurate diagnosis is crucial to managing gastrointestinal symptoms effectively. The Fecal Calprotectin Test offers a simple yet powerful way to assess intestinal inflammation, helping you and your healthcare provider make informed decisions about your care.

Order your Fecal Calprotectin Test today and take the first step toward better digestive health.

NOTE: Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional and used in conjunction with other clinical findings, medical history, and additional laboratory data to guide individual patient management and decision-making.