Crohn's Disease Test in California

What this test measures

This panel typically includes serologic markers such as antibodies to Saccharomyces cerevisiae, known as ASCA, and perinuclear antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies, or pANCA. Additional markers such as anti-OmpC and anti-CBir1 may be included depending on the panel. Inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein and erythrocyte sedimentation rate describe general inflammation, while fecal calprotectin reflects inflammation in the intestinal tract when a stool sample is part of the order.

Blood is collected by venipuncture, and a stool sample is collected separately when calprotectin is included. The laboratory uses immunoassays to measure the antibody and inflammation markers. Results are reported individually because patterns across markers can be more informative than any single value. For example, certain antibody patterns are more often associated with Crohn's disease, while others are more associated with ulcerative colitis, though overlap exists.

People order this testing when a provider is evaluating chronic diarrhea, abdominal pain, or other symptoms that raise concern for inflammatory bowel disease. It can also help distinguish inflammatory bowel disease from irritable bowel syndrome in some situations. The panel supports clinical assessment rather than replacing it, so a qualified healthcare provider should interpret the results alongside endoscopic and imaging findings.