Explore 10,000+ laboratory markers, in plain English.

an abundant neutrophil protein.

Fecal calprotectin is a stable protein found in stool that indicates inflammation in the intestinal lining, commonly used to help distinguish inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) like Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis from non-inflammatory conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It is also used to monitor disease activity and guide further testing, including the need for endoscopy. Normal levels suggest no active inflammation, while elevated levels point toward possible intestinal inflammation from various causes, including infections, medication effects, or IBD. Testing accuracy depends on proper sample collection and understanding that levels can fluctuate with symptoms and treatments. Borderline fecal calprotectin results (between 50 and 120 µg/g) can reflect mild or temporary inflammation caused by factors such as recent infections, medications like NSAIDs, or physical exertion. These results are not conclusive for active disease and typically warrant retesting in 4 to 6 weeks to see if levels normalize or rise. If symptoms persist or worsen during this period, further diagnostic tests may be needed to clarify the cause and guide appropriate treatment. Borderline results often reassure that severe inflammation is unlikely but require clinical follow-up.

CaM Kinase II (CaMKII) measures immune effects on neuronal signaling and helps evaluate neuro-immune conditions such as PANS, PANDAS, and autoimmune brain disorders.

Campesterol is a critical marker on the Boston Heart Cholesterol Balance® test, providing valuable insights into cholesterol absorption. As a plant sterol, campesterol is absorbed into intestinal cells and serves as an excellent indicator of how much cholesterol is being absorbed from the diet. Elevated levels of campesterol in the bloodstream suggest increased cholesterol absorption, which can influence the effectiveness of certain cholesterol-lowering treatments. By measuring campesterol, alongside other markers like lathosterol and beta-sitosterol, the Boston Heart Cholesterol Balance® test offers a comprehensive assessment of a patient's cholesterol metabolism, enabling healthcare providers to tailor treatment strategies more effectively to manage and reduce cardiovascular disease risk.

Campylobacter is an infectious disease caused by Campylobacter bacteria.

Most Campylobacter infections in industrialized countries are caused by C. jejuni, C. coli, and C. lari with an estimated 1.5 million cases of foodborne illness due to Campylobacter per year in the US. Campylobacter spp. are responsible for approximately 15% of hospitalizations resulting from foodborne infections. Generally, campylobacteriosis presents as one to three days of fever, vomiting, and headaches followed by three to seven days of watery or bloody diarrhea and may include abdominal pain, cramping, nausea, headache, and/ or muscle pain within 2-5 days of infection. Contaminated water, pets, food, unpasteurized milk and undercooked poultry, are sources of infection. Use of antibiotics is controversial but may benefit children whom have had symptoms for less than 7 days, and immunocompromised individuals. Recommendations potentially include Azithromycin 500 mg daily for 3 days or Fluoroquinolone for 3 days, but infection may resist fluoroquinolones. Extracts of Acacia nilotiac show in vitro antibacterial activities against Campylobacter spp. isolated from sheep. Oral rehydration therapy is recommended to prevent dehydration, along with symptomatic treatment of fever and muscle aches.

causes severe gastroenteritis