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Gastroenterology — MRCGP AKT MCQ

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EasyGastroenterologyMRCGP AKT

A 29-year-old female presents with a 6-month history of abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits (diarrhoea predominant). No red flags are identified. According to NICE guidelines, which investigation should be done first to rule out alternative diagnoses?

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Correct answer: A — Faecal calprotectin

In a patient suspected of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), NICE recommends measuring faecal calprotectin to help differentiate IBS from inflammatory bowel disease. Elevated calprotectin suggests IBD, while a normal result supports IBS. More invasive investigations are reserved for red flags or atypical features.

Reference: NICE IBS Guideline