Add-On: Fecal Lactoferrin

This is a single-marker test measuring fecal lactoferrin. It is available only as an add-on to the GI Effects® Comprehensive and GI Effects® Microbial Ecology profiles.

What is the Add-On: Fecal Lactoferrin By Genova Diagnostics? 

Fecal lactoferrin, an iron-binding protein present in neutrophils, serves as a marker for inflammation severity in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Studies have demonstrated a correlation between the level of lactoferrin released by neutrophils and the extent of GI inflammation. [1.]

Lactoferrin remains stable in feces for several days at room temperature, and its stability can be prolonged further if the stool is refrigerated.

What is the Clinical Relevance of the Add-On: Fecal Lactoferrin By Genova Diagnostics?

Fecal lactoferrin testing aids physicians in distinguishing between inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), assessing the severity of IBD initially, correlating with endoscopic findings, monitoring IBD activity, and potentially predicting IBD relapse.  [1.]

Because it is a sensitive and specific marker for intestinal inflammation, the amount of fecal lactoferrin present may determine the severity of IBD pathology, and determine whether gastrointestinal inflammation is present in patients with abdominal pain and diarrhea. [2.]

Who Could Benefit from the Add-On: Fecal Lactoferrin By Genova Diagnostics?

Individuals who should consider getting a fecal lactoferrin test include:

Those experiencing symptoms suggestive of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, and unexplained weight loss.

Patients with a known diagnosis of IBD who require monitoring of disease activity or assessment of treatment effectiveness.

Individuals with symptoms of gastrointestinal inflammation but without a clear diagnosis, to help differentiate between conditions like IBD and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Individuals with a history of IBD who are at risk of disease relapse and would benefit from predictive testing.

Patients undergoing evaluation for suspected gastrointestinal infections or other inflammatory conditions affecting the GI tract.

Those with a family history of IBD or other risk factors predisposing them to GI inflammation.

Collection and Shipping

This test is an add-on.  For full collection and shipping instructions, click here.

Additional Resources for Practitioners

Video: Interpreting the GI Effects Profile

Article: Using the GI Effects Test in Clinic

References

[1.] Abraham BP. Fecal Lactoferrin Testing. Gastroenterol Hepatol (N Y). 2018 Dec;14(12):713-716. PMID: 30804718; PMCID: PMC6383158. 

[2.] Kane SV, Sandborn WJ, Rufo PA, Zholudev A, Boone J, Lyerly D, Camilleri M, Hanauer SB. Fecal lactoferrin is a sensitive and specific marker in identifying intestinal inflammation. Am J Gastroenterol. 2003 Jun;98(6):1309-14. doi: 10.1111/j.1572-0241.2003.07458.x. PMID: 12818275.