The faecal calprotectin test is a non-invasive stool test used to detect inflammation in the intestines, making it an essential tool for diagnosing Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. It measures the level of calprotectin, a protein released by white blood cells in response to inflammation. High calprotectin levels indicate active inflammation in the gut, helping to distinguish IBD from non-inflammatory conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The test is simple to conduct at home, with results providing critical information for diagnosis and monitoring disease activity.

The HbA1c test measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months, making it a crucial tool for managing diabetes. Unlike daily blood glucose tests, HbA1c provides a long-term view of blood sugar control, with normal values below 5.7% for non-diabetics. For diabetics, the target HbA1c is typically below 7%. Higher levels suggest poor blood sugar management and increased risk for complications. The HbA1c test should be done at least twice a year for diabetics, or more frequently if medication or lifestyle changes are made.

Serum creatinine is a blood test used to assess kidney function by measuring the level of creatinine, a waste product from muscle metabolism, in the bloodstream. The kidneys filter creatinine out of the blood, so high levels can indicate impaired kidney function or kidney disease. Normal ranges for serum creatinine are typically 0.6 to 1.2 mg/dL for men and 0.5 to 1.1 mg/dL for women. Elevated levels suggest the kidneys may not be filtering waste properly, which can be caused by conditions like chronic kidney disease or acute kidney injury.

Liver function tests (LFTs) are a series of blood tests that assess how well your liver is working by measuring levels of proteins, enzymes, and waste products. These tests evaluate various liver functions, including producing proteins like albumin, clearing waste like bilirubin, and enzyme activity (e.g., ALT, AST). Abnormal LFT results can indicate liver damage or disease, such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or fatty liver disease. Understanding these test results helps your doctor diagnose liver conditions and monitor ongoing liver health, making them essential in liver disease management.