Calprotectin or Lactoferrin: Do They Help

Abstract

Background: The diagnosis and monitoring of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has traditionally relied on clinical assessment, serum markers of inflammation and endoscopic examination. Fecal biomarkers such as calprotectin (FC) and lactoferrin (FL) are predominantly derived from neutrophils, are easily detectable in the feces and are now established as valuable markers of intestinal inflammation. In recent years, a 'treat to target' concept has emerged for the management of IBD. Adequate control of inflammation in IBD at a biochemical level is quickly becoming an important target in IBD management. Key Messages: Fecal biomarkers have been shown to be significantly and consistently increased i..