Abstract
ABSTRACTBackgroundCalprotectin is a protein abundant in neutrophils. Fecal calprotectin can be used as a marker of gastrointestinal inflammation, and an improved assay has recently been developed. The aim of this study was to establish reference values for fecal calprotectin in healthy children aged between 4 and 17 years.MethodsFecal samples were obtained from 117 healthy children classified into four age groups: 4 to 6 years, 7 to 10 years, 11 to 14 years, and 15 to 17 years. A health questionnaire was used to ensure that these children fulfilled the inclusion criterion and did not have intercurrent disease, nasal or menstrual bleeding, or nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug medication before the sampling period. Calprotectin was analyzed using a quantitative enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (Calprest, Eurospital SpA, Trieste, Italy). Children with fecal calprotectin values >50 μg/g were asked to deliver an additional sample.ResultsThe overall median fecal calprotectin concentration was 13.6 μg/g (95% confidence interval, 9.9–19.5 μg/g) in the 117 children. In the different age groups, 4 to 6 years, 7 to 10 years, 11 to 14 years, and 15 to 17 years, the median calprotectin concentrations were 28.2, 13.5, 9.9, and 14.6 μg/g, respectively. Of these children, 104 (89%) had a concentration <50 μg/g. The remaining 13 children with a calprotectin concentration >50 μg/g delivered one additional fecal sample. All showed a lower concentration in the second sample except for one teenager who later proved to have proctitis.ConclusionsThe suggested cutoff level for adults (<50 μg/g) can be used for children aged from 4 to 17 years regardless of sex. A fecal calprotectin concentration >50 μg/g warrants follow‐up.
Published Version
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