Gastrointestinal disorders are incredibly common, affecting millions of people worldwide. They can range from mild symptoms like indigestion to severe health conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and colon cancer. One key factor in the diagnosis and management of these illnesses is the measurement of faecal calprotectin levels. Fortunately, the market is full of options for calprotectin testing, and Alpha Laboratories is one of the most prominent manufacturers in the UK.
What is Faecal Calprotectin?
Faecal calprotectin is a protein produced by white blood cells, particularly neutrophils, in response to inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. It is not specific to one particular condition, but rather an indicator that inflammation is present. Measuring the levels of calprotectin in the stool can help differentiate between inflammatory and non-inflammatory disorders, and thus lead to more effective treatment options.
Why is Faecal Calprotectin Testing Important?
The faecal calprotectin test is a non-invasive and relatively cheap option for assessing inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. It has become increasingly popular in recent years as a way of distinguishing between inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which has similar symptoms but is not inflammatory.
Using a faecal calprotectin test can also aid in identifying other gastrointestinal disorders, such as coeliac disease, diverticulitis, and colon cancer. Early diagnosis of these diseases is crucial, as many of them can be successfully treated if detected at an early stage.
Additionally, monitoring faecal calprotectin levels can help assess the effectiveness of treatment plans for individuals with inflammatory bowel disease or other inflammatory gastrointestinal disorders. It can also guide healthcare providers in adjusting medication doses or trying different therapies.
Alpha Laboratories: A Leader in Calprotectin Testing Products
Alpha Laboratories offers a wide range of calprotectin testing products, including test formats such as ELISA, fluorescence immunoassays (FIA), and rapid tests. Their products are user-friendly, straightforward, and can provide accurate results within a short period.
The ELISA format is considered the gold standard for measuring faecal calprotectin levels. It is a laboratory-based test that requires expertise and a certain level of equipment. However, it is still the most reliable method for detecting calprotectin levels in the stool.
The Rapid Alpha faecal calprotectin test is a point-of-care device ideal for use in primary care settings where a quick turnaround time is required. The test only takes ten minutes and requires no special training, and the results are available immediately.
The Alpha Laboratories fluorescent immunoassay (FIA) test is a highly sensitive method that can measure low levels of faecal calprotectin. The FIA test provides results in 30 minutes and is ideal for detecting inflammation in patients with IBD or other inflammatory gastrointestinal disorders.
Conclusion
The faecal calprotectin test is an invaluable diagnostic tool for identifying gastrointestinal disorders, including inflammatory bowel disease and colon cancer. Measuring the levels of calprotectin in the stool can help differentiate between inflammatory and non-inflammatory conditions, leading to more effective treatment plans.
Alpha Laboratories offers a range of accurate and reliable calprotectin testing products, including ELISA, FIA, and rapid tests. These products are user-friendly and ideal for use in various settings, from primary care to specialist laboratories. If you're looking for a trustworthy and dependable manufacturer of calprotectin testing products, look no further than Alpha Laboratories.