Understanding Calprotectin: Normal vs Optimal Ranges

?What is Calprotectin?

Fecal calprotectin is a calcium-binding protein released from neutrophils during intestinal inflammation. It is measured in a stool sample and serves as a highly sensitive and specific biomarker of gastrointestinal mucosal inflammation. It correlates with endoscopic activity in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

!Why It Matters

Elevated fecal calprotectin reliably distinguishes organic intestinal inflammation (IBD: Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis) from functional disorders (IBS) with high sensitivity. It is used to monitor IBD disease activity, predict relapse, and assess treatment response without the need for repeated colonoscopy. Serial measurement is more valuable than a single result.

Reference Ranges

Lab normal ranges may vary between laboratories. Optimal and longevity targets are based on research literature and should be interpreted with your physician.

Symptoms of Imbalance

• Diarrhoea (often bloody in IBD), abdominal cramping, urgency
• Weight loss and fatigue in active IBD

How to Improve Your Levels

• 1Treat underlying IBD with appropriate medications (aminosalicylates, biologics, steroids)
• 2Anti-inflammatory diet (low in ultra-processed foods, high in fibre)
• 3Probiotics may modestly reduce calprotectin in some IBD patients

When to Test

When IBD is suspected; every 3–6 months to monitor IBD disease activity or treatment response.

Related Biomarkers