It is often difficult to differentiate patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) those who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome due to similar symptoms of patients. Both groups show similar nonspecific symptoms such as abdominal pain and diarrhea.
Calprotectin in stool – indicator for inflammation of the gut
One significant difference between IBD and IBS is the presence of an inflammation the intestines, which can be determinded by immunological tests that quantify the Calprotectin concentration.
The amount of calprotectin in stool correlates directly with the intensity of the inflammation and gives the doctor an indication of whether a colonoscopy might be useful. In this way the analysis of calprotectin in stool helps to ensure an efficient treatment which is adapted to the needs of the patient.
Milestone publication to differentiate between IBD and IBS
Van Rheenen et al.* showed already in 2010 that calprotectin allows a precise distinction between IBD and IBS.
The analysis of calprotectin in the stool is a method for the differential diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome and is used for monitoring the course of IBD diseases.
Detection of calprotectin in stool
Calprotectin in stool can be detected by immunological tests such as RIDASCREEN® Calprotectin. View product →
