White blood cells in stool

Explanation

A white blood cell in stool test looks for immune cells in a stool sample as a sign of inflammation in the digestive tract.

What does the test look for?

The test checks stool for white blood cells, also called leukocytes. These cells can appear when the digestive tract is inflamed. This is not the same as counting white blood cells in a blood sample.

What can a positive result show?

Finding white blood cells supports that inflammation is present. Infections and inflammatory bowel disease are among the possible causes, but the test cannot identify the exact condition. Other tests are usually needed.

How is this different from a calprotectin test?

A calprotectin stool test is related, but it measures a protein released by certain white blood cells when the intestine is inflamed. The white blood cell test looks for the cells themselves.

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