Specialized blood tests

Markers of inflammation

Proteins found in blood and stool, also called biomarkers, may be useful tests for detecting inflammation. They can help in diagnosis and may predict the course of IBD.
The use of some biomarkers is relatively new; they are not used by all physicians. Stool biomarkers include calprotectin and lactoferrin. Blood biomarkers include CRP & ESR. Research has shown that these biomarkers are useful in predicting IBD activity, but they are also present in other GI diseases. These blood and stool tests may be more helpful for guiding invasive testing, detecting flares, and optimizing medical therapies than for diagnosing IBD.

Ruling out other diseases with routine stool-based tests

Gastrointestinal infections with similar symptoms may be identified by testing small stool samples. These tests may look for C. difficile, E. coli, Campylobacter, Yersinia, Salmonella, Shigella, and other infections.

Specialized blood tests

Specialized tests include serology tests for biomarkers that researchers have associated with IBD. pANCA, ASCA, CBir1, and OmpC are examples of biomarkers that may be included in serology tests. Approximately 80% of patients may have biomarkers associated with IBD while 15-20% of patients may not have these markers. However, these tests will not be necessary for all IBD patients, as in most cases, the physician can make the diagnosis without them. In addition, these biomarkers are not present in a significant number of patients with documented IBD and may also be present in those without IBD.
It is important to realize that many biomarkers are the result of more recent research and have varying degrees of acceptance by the medical community. There are a number of tests that help physicians diagnose and monitor IBD; your physician may not order every one. The perspective is changing based on research and experience. Keep up with current information by speaking with your doctor and checking the CCFA website.