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Stomach cramps, diarrhea with blood, raised CALPROTECTIN.

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I had diarrhea followed by some blood and have significant raised calprotectin. I have had this twice in the last year. I also had some rectal bleeding which is not related to this and had a virtual colonoscopy about eighteen months ago which was clear although I had the virtual without the dye.
I have stomach cramps.

My gp says the calprotectin means an inflammation of the bowel - crohns or colitis but he said it definitely doesn't mean cancer. however, when I look online it says calprotectin and raised levels of it can indicate cancer.

Please advise. My level was 150 and I am seeing a specialist as soon as possible.  I am not worried I could have cancer despite the virtual colonoscopy which was eighteen months ago.

Category: Gastroenterologist, Medical

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Dr. Ratnakar Kini
Category: Hepatologist
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 32 Doctors Online

Expert:  Dr. Ratnakar Kini
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Hello,
Thanks for posting your query at DoctorSpring.com
I apologize for the late reply.
I am Dr.R.K and I am pleased to assist you.
Yes, Calprotectin is a marker of inflammation. So raised calprotectin indicates some inflammation is going on.
With a history of bloody diarrhea and stomach cramps, a raised calprotectin points towards colonic inflammation.
With recurrent episodes, inflammatory bowel disease like ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease should be considered first.
Virtual colonoscopy may miss the findings.
A conventional colonoscopy may be done to look inside and also to take biopsy if any lesions found. The histopathological examination of the biopsy specimen would help to confirm the diagnosis.
Cancer is unlikely and the colonoscopy also would help to confirm there is no cancer.
I hope that answers your question.
Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr.R.K.

Dr. Ratnakar Kini
Category: Hepatologist
Experience: 
Fellowship - DM - TN Dr.MGR Medical UniversityResidency - TN Dr.MGR Medical University Medical School - Stanely Medical College, TN Dr.MGR Medical University
Dr. Ratnakar Kini and 4 other Medical Specialists are ready to help you

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