Can Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection increase fecal calprotectin levels?

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Last updated: February 19, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

H. pylori Infection and Fecal Calprotectin Levels

Yes, H. pylori infection can increase fecal calprotectin levels. Fecal calprotectin is a marker of gut inflammation, and its levels may be elevated in the setting of concomitant gastrointestinal infections, including H. pylori infection 1.

  • Mechanism of Increased Calprotectin: H. pylori infection can cause inflammation in the stomach and intestines, leading to increased calprotectin levels.
  • Clinical Implications: In patients with H. pylori infection, calprotectin levels may be elevated, and treatment with antibiotics may help reduce calprotectin levels by eradicating the infection.
  • Interpretation of Calprotectin Levels: It is essential to interpret calprotectin levels in the context of clinical symptoms and other diagnostic tests, as elevated calprotectin levels can also be caused by other conditions, such as Crohn's disease or Clostridioides difficile infection 1.
  • Diagnostic Considerations: Stool testing for H. pylori and other enteric pathogens is important to help rule out other sources of gastrointestinal infections in patients with elevated biomarkers and disease-related symptoms 1.

From the Research

Helicobacter pylori Infection and Fecal Calprotectin Levels

  • There are no research papers provided that directly investigate the relationship between Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection and fecal calprotectin levels 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
  • The provided studies focus on the role of Yes-associated protein (YAP) in various diseases, including nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, liver fibrosis, angiogenesis, cervical carcinoma, and chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps.
  • None of the studies mention H. pylori infection or its potential impact on fecal calprotectin levels.
  • Fecal calprotectin is a marker of intestinal inflammation, and its levels can be elevated in various gastrointestinal diseases, but the provided evidence does not support a direct link between H. pylori infection and fecal calprotectin levels.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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