Evaluation of Fecal Calprotectin as a Diagnostic Marker for Inflammatory Bowel Disease

flammatory markers such as C-reactive protein and erythrocyte sedimentation rate exhibit limited sensitivity and specificity [1].Although endoscopy remains the gold standard for IBD diagnosis [2], it is invasive, more costly, and less accessible compared with alternative methods.Consequently, there is a growing need for a simple, rapid, minimally invasive, and reliable diagnostic test.Fecal calprotectin has recently been recognized as a valuable diagnostic biomarker in this context.Calprotectin is a calcium-and zinc-binding protein predominantly localized in neutrophils and released during cell activation or death [3].Its presence in feces indicates neutrophil transmigration and infiltration into the intestinal mucosa.During GI tract inflammation, fecal calprotectin concentrations increase significantly.Assessing fecal calprotectin levels offers a less invasive alternative to colonoscopy, serving as a valuable screening tool that may reduce unnecessary endoscopic procedures [4].Moreover, several studies have demonstrated its utility in predicting disease recurrence [5].