New simple test launched to differentiate between functional bowel disorders

The world’s first fully automated test for faecal calprotectin, EliA™ Calprotectin, has been launched in the UK. This test can differentiate between a variety of functional bowel disorders including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

The test allows for faster and more efficient processing of samples than the tests currently used to distinguish between inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and IBS. Its high sensitivity will enable doctors to diagnose the conditions earlier leading to more effective and successful treatment. The test can also be used to monitor disease activity following the diagnosis allowing it to predict a relapse during remission.

The EliA™ Calprotectin has been shown in clinical trials to outperform blood tests such as CRP and ESR and removes the need for endoscopic procedures, including colonscopy. For further information about arranging a test and diagnosing bowel disorders please click here.

A fluid that transports oxygen and other substances through the body, made up of blood cells suspended in a liquid. Full medical glossary
A common name for the large and/or small intestines. Full medical glossary
Inflammation of the colon, also sometimes used to mean inflammation of the large intestine generally. Full medical glossary
The large intestine. Full medical glossary
A chronic inflammatory disease affecting the gastrointestinal tract. Full medical glossary
An abbreviation for C-reactive protein, found in the blood. Raised levels of this protein suggest tissue damage or necrosis (death of cells). Full medical glossary
The process of determining which condition a patient may have. Full medical glossary
The specialisation of cells or tissues for a specific function. Full medical glossary
An abbreviation for erythrocyte sedimentation rate, the speed with which red blood cells settle out of suspension in the blood. This indirectly measures inflammation in the body. Full medical glossary
An abbreviation for inflammatory bowel disease, a group of inflammatory conditions of the intestine. The two major forms are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Full medical glossary
irritable bowel syndrome, a combination of abdominal pain and constipation, diarrhoea, or bouts of each that occur in the absence of any other diagnosed disease Full medical glossary
A group of inflammatory conditions of the intestine. The two major forms are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Full medical glossary
A return or worsening of the symptoms of a disease after a period of remission. Full medical glossary
The lessening or disappearance of the symptoms or signs of a disease. Full medical glossary
Any abnormal break in the epithelium, the outer layer of cells covering the open surfaces of the body. Full medical glossary