title: [Faecal calprotectin in inflammatory bowel diseases: review].
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The clinical course of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is characterised by a succession of relapses and remissions. A regular and a long term monitoring of such patients is required. Faecal markers, especially calprotectin's use, seem to be useful in these patients. Faecal calprotectin is a reliable maker of intestinal inflammation in IBD. Its level is assessed by a simple and a non invasive test.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  We proposed to review main indications and study results of faecal calprotectin test use in IBD patients.
  
  
  METHODS
  Review of literature.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Faecal calprotectin assessment isn't an IBD specific test. Selective use is required to have a good benefit-cost ratio. Prediction of relapses in asymptomatic patients as well as post operative reccurence seems to be the main indications for its use.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Mucosal healing assessment after anti-TNF treatment can also be an interesting indication although it isn't well evaluated.
authors.affiliation: Hopital la Rabta, Tunis, Tunisie.
authors.forename: Lamia
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Kallel
authors.forename: Monia
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Fekih
authors.forename: Jalel
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Boubaker
authors.forename: Azza
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Filali
mesh_terms: D015415:Biomarkers / Q000032:analysis / Q000378:metabolism; D018450:Disease Progression; D005243:Feces / Q000737:chemistry*; D006801:Humans; D015212:Inflammatory Bowel Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000378:metabolism*; D039841:Leukocyte L1 Antigen Complex / Q000032:analysis* / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000502:physiology; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D011379:Prognosis
chemical_list: D015415:Biomarkers; D039841:Leukocyte L1 Antigen Complex