Gastro

Calprotectin is a protein released by neutrophils (white blood cells) in the gut wall. When intestinal inflammation is present — as in Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis — calprotectin levels in the stool rise dramatically. A stool calprotectin test can reliably differentiate inflammatory bowel disease from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), potentially avoiding an unnecessary colonoscopy.

The H. pylori stool antigen test (HpSA) using monoclonal antibodies has sensitivity and specificity exceeding 95%, comparable to the gold-standard urea breath test. It is preferred for both initial diagnosis and confirmation of eradication 4 weeks after completing antibiotic treatment.

No — this is a common mistake. Celiac antibody tests (anti-tTG, anti-EMA) require that you are consuming a normal gluten-containing diet. Going gluten-free before testing will suppress antibody levels and give a false negative result. Do not start a gluten-free diet until testing and biopsy (if needed) are complete.

Stool routine and microscopy results are available within 24 hours. Stool culture with sensitivity takes 3–5 days depending on whether organisms grow. Stool calprotectin and H. pylori stool antigen results are typically available within 24–48 hours.

Food intolerance IgG testing identifies delayed immune reactions to specific foods, which can contribute to bloating, abdominal discomfort and altered bowel habits. While it should be interpreted alongside clinical evaluation, many patients find guided dietary elimination based on IgG results provides significant symptomatic relief.