Lactoferrin and ferritin (with a bit ... - Crohn's and Colit...

Crohn's and Colitis Support

5,478 members1,756 posts

Lactoferrin and ferritin (with a bit of calprotectin thrown in for good measure...)

brilliantbobbie profile image
5 Replies

I have searched but can't see the answer to this question anywhere so I hope I'm not doubling up - if I am, apologies!

I had a stools test which came back with elevated levels of calprotectin (150), lactoferrin (46.5) and occult blood. I have been struggling with piles (I think) for some time with blood in stools, so I'm hoping the latter is due to that but I'm well aware that all these together could signify IBD. I am hopefully due to see a specialist next week and am hoping they will refer me for a colonoscopy. My ferritin levels are 29 so not stupidly low but not decent either.

Anyway, trying to do research, most people seem to mention taking lactoferrin to increase ferritin - what does it mean if the lactoferrin is already too high but the ferritin low? I'm super confused! Also my CRP level came back as normal in the blood test - would that not usually be elevated if these other markers are?

Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance :)

Written by
brilliantbobbie profile image
brilliantbobbie
To view profiles and participate in discussions please or .
Read more about...
5 Replies
jackdup profile image
jackdup

I can’t answer all your questions but my CRP is usually normal even when my Calprotectin is elevated. I have Crohns.

Eviet835 profile image
Eviet835

I was literally researching the same thing. I’m don’t have an answer unfortunately. However, my calprotectin is high (3000) and my C Reactive Protein just came back completely normal. I have no symptoms though but do have a milder form of IBD.

SuzyQ67 profile image
SuzyQ67

My gi rarely does a CRP because inflammation in other areas of the body can elevate it. The calprotectin targets the intestines only. With a history of piles it's good that you are going to see a specialist soon. The only way to know if you have an IBD is starting with a scope & biopsies. Depending on how bad the piles are you may need to consult with a colo-rectal surgeon. I wouldn't worry about 150 calprotectin.

brilliantbobbie profile image
brilliantbobbie

Thank you all - it's a bit of a minefield, right? And google, though very useful, is also a source of confusion! Evie, I hope you get some answers soon and huge thanks to those that responded. x

Viklou profile image
Viklou

I think, but no expert but lactoferrin and FCP are ways of measuring gut inflammation. At 150 your FCP is elevated and would normally mean you need to do another one in about 6 weeks to see if still elevated and this could enable a referral to a gastro. Ferritin they say anything below 12 is deficient. Mine usually hovers above that but my RBC is OK so not iron deficient but can be a pre cursor to being iron deficient. I would get them to check folate and B12 too.

Not what you're looking for?

You may also like...

worried

Hi there, I’ve been struggling with constipation for a few years but recently every 2-3 weeks when...
Sarah1611 profile image

A bit of a ramble...

I'm hoping what I'm about to write will resonate with someone. Having chronic illness/es can be so...
Vo321 profile image

i am so fed up of living in pain and having flare non stop!

Every since i was had Gastroenteritis back in 2015 my stomach has never been same again,I have been...
lucasussex profile image

Causes of high calprotecin levels?

Hi, I have had stomach problems for a while, my symptoms include: Frequent bowel movement ,...
HJay profile image

IBD??

Hi. Looking for some advice really. I've been suffering from stomach and bowel problems for a few...
PickledP1nk profile image

Moderation team

willow24 profile image
willow24Administrator

Content on HealthUnlocked does not replace the relationship between you and doctors or other healthcare professionals nor the advice you receive from them.

Never delay seeking advice or dialling emergency services because of something that you have read on HealthUnlocked.