Calprotectin and Elastase Panel

Calprotectin & Elastase Panel | London Blood Tests

Assess gut inflammation and pancreatic function with our Calprotectin & Elastase stool test panel for £168. Accurate UKAS testing, fast results, GP review.

The Calprotectin & Elastase Panel is a comprehensive stool test that evaluates intestinal inflammation and pancreatic digestive enzyme output in one assessment. Priced at £168, it is analysed in a UKAS-accredited laboratory, with results typically available within 5–7 business days and an optional GP consultation to interpret findings.

What is the Calprotectin & Elastase Panel?

This combined panel measures two key biomarkers found in stool:

• Faecal Calprotectin – a protein released by white blood cells during intestinal inflammation

• Faecal Elastase-1 – a pancreatic enzyme that reflects exocrine pancreatic function

Together, these markers provide valuable insight into whether digestive symptoms are driven by inflammatory bowel activity, pancreatic enzyme deficiency, or a combination of both.

Calprotectin is widely used to distinguish inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) from functional conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Elastase testing assesses the pancreas’ ability to produce digestive enzymes essential for fat, protein, and carbohydrate absorption.

By combining both tests, this panel helps clinicians identify or rule out serious gastrointestinal pathology while avoiding unnecessary invasive procedures.

Benefits of the Calprotectin & Elastase Panel

1. Differentiates Inflammatory vs Functional Gut Conditions
   Elevated calprotectin suggests intestinal inflammation, while normal levels support non-inflammatory causes such as IBS.

2. Assesses Pancreatic Digestive Function
   Elastase levels reveal whether the pancreas is producing sufficient digestive enzymes.

3. Reduces Need for Invasive Investigations
   Helps determine whether colonoscopy or imaging is warranted.

4. Identifies Causes of Malabsorption
   Detects pancreatic insufficiency that can lead to weight loss, nutrient deficiencies, and chronic diarrhoea.

5. Supports Monitoring of IBD Activity
   Useful for tracking inflammation in known Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.

6. Guides Targeted Treatment
   Results can direct appropriate use of anti-inflammatory therapy, enzyme replacement, or further investigations.

7. Optional GP Consultation for Clinical Context
   A GP can interpret results and advise on next diagnostic or treatment steps.

Why Do I Need This Panel?

You may benefit from this test if you experience:

• Chronic or recurrent diarrhoea

• Abdominal pain or cramping

• Bloating or excessive gas

• Unexplained weight loss

• Fatty, pale, or foul-smelling stools

• Suspected IBS vs IBD

• Possible pancreatic insufficiency

• Monitoring of known inflammatory bowel disease

This panel is particularly useful when symptoms are persistent and the cause is unclear.

How the Test Works

At-Home Stool Collection (Standard Method)

1. Order Your Test

   • Order online with no referral required.

   • Receive a home stool collection kit with clear instructions.

2. Sample Collection

   • Collect a small stool sample using the provided collection tools.

   • No dietary changes are usually required.

3. Sample Preparation

   • Secure the sample in the supplied container.

4. Return the Sample

   • Send the sample back using the prepaid packaging.

5. Laboratory Analysis

   • Calprotectin is measured using immunoassay techniques.

   • Elastase-1 is measured using enzyme immunoassay methods.

6. Quality Control

   • All results undergo strict internal quality checks.

7. Results Delivery

   • Results are typically available within 5–7 business days.

8. Optional GP Consultation

   • Discuss results and next steps with a GP if required.

Your Calprotectin & Elastase Results – Explained

Faecal Calprotectin (µg/g)

• Normal: < 50 µg/g

• Borderline: 50–150 µg/g

• High: > 150 µg/g (suggestive of intestinal inflammation)

Interpretation:

• Normal levels usually rule out inflammatory bowel disease.

• Elevated levels suggest active intestinal inflammation and may warrant further investigation.

Faecal Elastase-1 (µg/g)

• Normal: > 200 µg/g

• Moderate deficiency: 100–200 µg/g

• Severe deficiency: < 100 µg/g

Interpretation:

• Low elastase indicates exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, which can impair digestion and nutrient absorption.

Results should always be interpreted in clinical context, as infections, medications, and recent diarrhoea can influence levels.