PWE-067 Variability in reporting and interpretation of calprotectin levels in the united kingdom

Introduction Faecal calprotectin (f-Cp), a calcium binding protein, is a product of mucosal granulocyte infiltration in Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). In 2013 NICE supported its use in the UK as a tool for distinguishing between IBS and IBD. However we have previously reported inter-assay variability which may limit the efficacy of this test in IBD and current practice in reporting f-Cp seems to vary across the UK. The aim of this questionnaire was to determine the variability in reporting of f-Cp results to clinicians from laboratories across the UK. Method A questionnaire evaluation of all laboratories in the UK who currently perform a f-Cp assay and are members of the national quality assessment programme (UK NEQAS for Faecal Markers of Inflammation). Results The questionnaire was sent to 59 laboratories in the UK and responses were received from 69% (n=41). All laboratories performed their own assay on site. The reference ranges varied between laboratories being Conclusion The normal or reference range for f-Cp across UK laboratories seems to be relatively standardised. However for results outside of the normal reference range there seems to be increasing variability, which is particularly highlighted by the wide practices with regards to interpreting indeterminate results. Disclosure of interest None Declared.