Good to knowOne result rarely tells the whole story. Your provider looks at your results together with your symptoms, exam, and other tests.
What the test is
NSAIDs and infections can also raise it.
Why it's done
- Ongoing diarrhea or belly pain
- Following Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis
Getting ready and what happens
- Avoid NSAIDs for a few days before, if possible.
How the test is done
- You collect a small stool sample.
What the results mean
| Result | Typical range for adults |
|---|---|
| Normal | Below about 50 mcg/g |
Normal ranges vary from lab to lab and can differ by age, sex, and pregnancy. Your report lists your lab's own range next to each result. A result a little outside the range is often not a problem.
High
Suggests gut inflammation; a colonoscopy may follow.
Normal
Makes IBD unlikely and points toward IBS.
Questions to ask your provider
- What do my results mean for me?
- Do I need to repeat this test or have other tests?
Related conditions
Related medicines
Related tests
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.