What is analysed?
Lactoferrin is a multifunctional glycoprotein released in the body’s biological fluids (tears, breast milk, faeces) that plays an important role in immune system response, enzyme activity, and gut health. Lactoferrin serves as a marker for various inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
What does the result mean?
The result indicates the concentration of lactoferrin in the collected sample.
Why conduct the analysis?
The lactoferrin test is conducted to help diagnose inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract like colorectal cancer and IBD (inflammatory bowel disease), which includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
When to conduct the analysis?
The lactoferrin test is conducted when symptoms of inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, such as diarrhoea, abdominal pain, blood in stool, fatigue, and lack of appetite are observed.
What sample is required?
A faecal sample is used for the analysis of lactoferrin.
Is any prior preparation necessary?
No specific prior preparation is required.
How is it performed?
The collected sample is sent to a laboratory, where it is analysed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) techniques to quantify lactoferrin levels in the body.
What are the normal values?
The table below shows the typical reference range for lactoferrin levels in stool.
What does having altered values mean?
- Elevated levels: Raised lactoferrin levels indicate inflammation or infection in the intestines, helping diagnose inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract such as IBD.