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Calprotectin, Stool — Mass Concentration

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

A stool test that measures calprotectin, a marker released by inflamed intestinal tissue. It can help distinguish inflammatory bowel disease from functional intestinal symptoms.

Quick summary

["Elevated stool calprotectin may indicate inflammation in the intestines, but it does not identify the cause by itself."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
38445-3
Short code
Calprotectin Stl-mCnt
Synonyms
Calprotectin Stl-mCnt
Category
liver
Sample
stool
Container
Clean container
Units
N/A
Ref low
44
Ref high
147
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
84075
SNOMED
27550007
Specimen volume
5 g
Stability
Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

Stool calprotectin measures the amount of calprotectin in a sample of bowel movements. Calprotectin is released from white blood cells in inflamed intestinal tissue, so a higher result can suggest intestinal inflammation.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be used to investigate ongoing diarrhea, abdominal pain, or other digestive symptoms. It can help clinicians distinguish inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn disease or ulcerative colitis, from conditions that do not cause intestinal inflammation.

How is the test performed?

You collect a small amount of stool at home and send the sample to a laboratory as directed. The laboratory measures the calprotectin concentration in the sample; the test does not require an intravenous needle or radiation.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's stool-collection instructions carefully, including how much to collect and how soon to submit it. Tell your clinician about antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medicines, and recent intestinal illness, because these may affect interpretation.

Reference range

Adult: 44-147 U/LN/A

Specimen: stool

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Stool Calprotectin

Frequently asked questions

Does a stool calprotectin test diagnose inflammatory bowel disease?
No. It can indicate intestinal inflammation and help guide further evaluation, but other conditions can also cause an elevated result, so the finding does not confirm a specific diagnosis.
Is stool calprotectin the same as a stool culture?
No. Stool calprotectin measures a marker of intestinal inflammation, while a stool culture looks for specific infectious organisms.
Can I take medicines before this test?
Continue prescribed medicines unless your clinician instructs otherwise. Mention any antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, or supplements such as iron and calcium when you speak with your clinician, because they may influence the result.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy