Changes to Faecal Calprotectin Testing
Important update – effective from 22 June 2026
The Pathology Department at Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust has introduced changes to faecal calprotectin testing, including a new sample collection method and updated referral guidance for adults (18+) presenting with lower gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms suggestive of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Change to sample collection
From 22 June 2026, faecal calprotectin samples must be submitted using a green-top stool tube, which is the same collection device used for FIT (Faecal Immunochemical Test) samples.
This change means that where both FIT and faecal calprotectin tests are requested, patients can provide a single sample in a green-top tube for both investigations.
Important
- Green-top stool tubes must be used for all faecal calprotectin requests from 22 June 2026.
- Samples submitted in the previous blue-top tubes will no longer be accepted.
- From 27 June 2026, any faecal calprotectin samples received in blue-top tubes will be rejected.
Practices do not need to request additional stock of green-top tubes, as distribution is managed automatically.
Why is this changing?
The change supports a new testing method which:
- Improves testing efficiency.
- Improves sample stability.
- Allows both FIT and faecal calprotectin testing to be performed from a single sample.
Updated referral guidance
As part of the new testing method, the reporting range has changed and a new referral threshold has been agreed with the BHRUT Gastroenterology Team.
Patients aged 18 and over with lower GI symptoms suggestive of IBD
Refer as new IBD via the STT pathway (including colonoscopy) if:
- Blood tests are abnormal, or
- Faecal calprotectin (new method) is greater than 300 ug/g
Repeat testing and consider IBS advice if:
- Blood tests are normal, and
- Faecal calprotectin (new method) is 100–300 ug/g.
In these cases, repeat faecal calprotectin testing after 4 weeks and consider IBS management advice where appropriate.
Further information
Patient information leaflets for stool sample collection are available via the BHRUT Pathology service.
Patient information leaflet for faecal calprotectin [pdf] 605KB
If you have any queries about FIT tubes please email bhrut.fit-testing@nhs.net
For any clinical queries regarding the change in calprotectin method and cut-off, please email bhrut.biochemistry-clinical-advice@nhs.net