Calprotectin level

[Ricycle]

Hi can anyone tell me whether the calprotectin level is always raised in someone with IBD or is it only during a flair? X

[honda7]

Hi, it's only raised during a flare up. In my experience I don't like this test because when I have had it done it has only been slightly elevated but now I have had an MRI which shows I have bowel strictures so for this reason I don't feel it gives a true picture of what's going on.

[Ricycle in reply to honda7]

Thank you for your reply honda7. I have only had problems once so far which lasted for a month, at the back end of that my calprotectin level was 965. I haven't had any symptoms for the last three months so I'm not expecting it to be raised but as a precaution I am being passed over to the IBD nurses care. X

[Frankiealice]

I'd like know this too!

[Ricycle in reply to Frankiealice]

Hi Frankiealice, I have been very lucky in that I have only had 1 episode. At that time my calprotectin level was 965, I have since retested and my level was normal at less than 20

[Frankiealice in reply to Ricycle]

Ooh ok the only reason I wanted to know is that i have suspected IBD but being pushed away and told it's ibs only. Doc has agreed to stool test but at the min my symptoms are mild and quiet so wasn't sure whether to wait for active flare up or if i can do test now. I don't want to do it now if it's not going to give a true result of my concerns and then doc refuses referral.

[Ricycle in reply to Frankiealice]

Are you having regular flares? I don't think it's worth getting the test if everything is quiet. Would it be possible for you to get the kit from your gp and keep hold of it until you have a flare up?

[Frankiealice in reply to Ricycle]

I go through stages where I have a month where I have mild symptoms and this is me currently. I've got the kit so may wait then if that's best. When I get a flare up they are constant for a month or so