fecal calprotectin
Biomarker used to detect intestinal inflammation and monitor inflammatory bowel disease activity.
Full Definition
Fecal calprotectin is a calcium-binding protein found in neutrophils that serves as a non-invasive biomarker for intestinal inflammation. When neutrophils migrate to inflamed intestinal tissue, calprotectin is released and can be measured in stool samples. In pediatric gastroenterology, fecal calprotectin levels help distinguish inflammatory bowel disease from functional gastrointestinal disorders, monitor disease activity, and assess treatment response. Elevated levels (typically >50 µg/g in children) suggest active intestinal inflammation, while normal levels support functional disorders. This test is particularly valuable for monitoring IBD patients and detecting subclinical inflammation.
Usage
Usage note: Include units (µg/g) when reporting values; may be abbreviated as FC in informal notes.
In Context
- "Fecal calprotectin levels remained elevated at 450 µg/g despite clinical improvement." — Laboratory report
- "Normal fecal calprotectin ruled out inflammatory bowel disease in this patient with chronic abdominal pain." — Diagnostic workup summary