Causes of Elevated Calprotectin Levels

Elevated calprotectin levels are most commonly associated with inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. These conditions are characterized by chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, which leads to the release of calprotectin into the stool MedlinePlus. However, other conditions can also cause elevated calprotectin levels, including:

• Infections: Bacterial infections such as those caused by Campylobacter, Salmonella, and Clostridium difficile can lead to increased calprotectin levels due to the inflammation they cause in the gut Rupa Health.
• Non-IBD Colitis: Conditions like microscopic colitis or ischemic colitis can also result in elevated calprotectin levels American College of Gastroenterology.
• Neoplasms: Gastrointestinal cancers, such as colorectal cancer, can cause elevated calprotectin levels due to the inflammatory response they provoke PubMed.
• Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can irritate the gastrointestinal lining, leading to increased calprotectin levels Calprotectin Information for Patients.

Diagnostic Steps and What to Expect

Given the high calprotectin level, your gastroenterologist will likely recommend further diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause. These may include:

• Colonoscopy: This procedure allows direct visualization of the colon and can help identify signs of IBD or other conditions like polyps or cancer.
• Imaging Tests: CT scans or MRIs may be used to assess the extent of inflammation or to rule out other conditions.
• Blood Tests: These can help identify markers of inflammation or infection and assess overall health.

Treatment Options

If IBD is confirmed, treatment typically involves medications to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms. These may include:

• Aminosalicylates: Used to reduce inflammation in the lining of the intestines.
• Corticosteroids: These are used for short-term relief of severe symptoms.
• Immunomodulators: These drugs help modify the immune system to reduce inflammation.
• Biologics: Targeted therapies that block specific pathways in the inflammatory process.

For non-IBD causes, treatment will focus on addressing the specific condition, such as antibiotics for infections or dietary changes for medication-induced inflammation.