All Digestive System Tests

“All Digestive System Tests” brings your core GI lab options into one place. A proactive plan starts by matching your question—infection, inflammation, bleeding, malabsorption, reflux/dyspepsia, or pancreatic issues—to the right stool, breath, and blood tests. Noninvasive stool markers (calprotectin/lactoferrin) help separate inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) from non-inflammatory causes like IBS. Pathogen PCR and C. difficile testing identify infections fast. For upper-GI concerns, H. pylori stool antigen or urea breath tests evaluate ulcer risk. Chronic diarrhea, weight loss, or greasy stools point to malabsorption tests (fecal fat, pancreatic elastase) and nutrient panels.

Blood work—CBC, CMP/electrolytes, CRP/ESR, iron/ferritin, B12/folate, vitamin D, liver enzymes—adds context on hydration, anemia, inflammation, and organ status. Labs guide next steps and monitoring but do not replace a clinician’s exam, imaging, or endoscopy when indicated.

Signs, Symptoms & Related Situations

  • Digestive: abdominal pain/cramping, bloating, early fullness, nausea/vomiting, diarrhea or constipation, mucus or blood in stool

  • Systemic: fever, fatigue, unintended weight loss, night sweats

  • Malabsorption: greasy/floating stools, weight loss, low iron/B12/folate/vitamin D

  • Risk clues: recent antibiotics or hospitalization (C. difficile), travel/unsafe food, NSAID use, autoimmune disease, family history of IBD/celiac/colon cancer

  • Urgent care: severe rectal bleeding, black/tarry stools, persistent high fever with dehydration, severe abdominal pain, fainting
    All symptoms should be evaluated by a qualified clinician.

Why These Tests Matter

What testing can do

  • Differentiate inflammation vs. functional disorders (e.g., IBD vs. IBS)

  • Detect infectious causes rapidly to guide care and reduce spread

  • Identify bleeding and malabsorption with objective markers

  • Establish baselines and trend results to time escalation (e.g., endoscopy)

What testing cannot do

  • Replace colonoscopy or upper endoscopy when visualization/biopsy is needed

  • Diagnose the exact cause of pain without clinical context

  • Serve as broad screening when symptoms are absent—use tests that fit the clinical question

What These Tests Measure (at a glance)

  • Inflammation (stool): Fecal calprotectin / lactoferrin—neutrophil proteins that rise with intestinal inflammation (IBD signal). Caveat: infection/NSAIDs can elevate; trends matter.*

  • Infection (stool): GI pathogen PCR panel (bacteria/viruses/parasites); C. difficile toxin/PCR for antibiotic-associated diarrhea. Caveat: test only unformed stools for C. diff; colonization occurs.*

  • Bleeding/screening (stool): FIT (fecal immunochemical test) and stool DNA–FITpositive → diagnostic colonoscopyCaveat: FIT preferred over guaiac occult blood.*

  • Ulcer/H. pylori: Stool antigen or urea breath test for active infection. Caveat: follow PPI/antibiotic/bismuth medication holds for accuracy.*

  • Celiac disease (blood ± stool context): tTG-IgA + total IgA (reflex to IgG tests if IgA deficient); consider EMAfor specificity. Caveat: must be on a gluten-containing diet.*

  • Malabsorption/EPI: Fecal elastase-1 (exocrine pancreatic insufficiency), fecal fat (steatorrhea). Caveat: watery stools can dilute elastase; repeat if borderline.*

  • Pancreas acute context (blood): Lipase (± amylase) for pancreatitis; triglyceridescalcium, and liver panel for causes/complications.

  • Breath tests (selected): Hydrogen/methane lactose breath (lactose malabsorption); lactulose breath (SIBO, clinician-directed). Caveat: prep affects results.*

  • Blood context labs: CBC, CMP/electrolytes, CRP/ESR, iron/ferritin, B12/folate, vitamin D, liver enzymes (ALT/AST/ALP/bilirubin)—anemia, hydration, inflammation, organ status.

How the Testing Process Works

  1. Define the question: infection, inflammation, bleeding, malabsorption, reflux/ulcer, or pancreas.

  2. Select tests: choose stool/serology/breath aligned to the question; add CBC/CMP/CRP-ESR for context.

  3. Collect correctly: follow stool kit and breath-test prep (avoid contamination; observe diet/med holds).

  4. View results securely: most stool/blood tests post within a few days.

  5. Plan next steps: your clinician may recommend therapy, dietary changes, colonoscopy/endoscopy, or imaging based on combined findings.

Interpreting Results (General Guidance)

  • High fecal calprotectin/lactoferrin: supports organic inflammation (e.g., IBD) over IBS; consider repeat testing or endoscopy.

  • Positive pathogen or C. difficile: indicates infection; correlate with symptoms before escalating care.

  • Positive FIT or stool DNA–FIT: requires diagnostic colonoscopy—do not rely on repeat stool testing.

  • Positive H. pylori stool antigen/UBT: supports active infection in the right setting; follow test-of-cure timing after therapy.

  • Low fecal elastase-1 or abnormal nutrition labs: suggests malabsorption/EPI; recheck after treatment.
    Always interpret results with a qualified healthcare professional.

Choosing Panels vs. Individual Tests

  • Inflammation vs. IBS: Fecal calprotectin (± lactoferrin) + CRP/ESR; add CBC/CMP.

  • Acute diarrhea: GI pathogen PCR; add C. difficile with recent antibiotics/hospitalization.

  • Ulcer symptoms/dyspepsia: H. pylori stool antigen or urea breath test (observe prep).

  • Chronic diarrhea/weight loss: Celiac panelfecal fat/pancreatic elastase, and nutrient labs.

  • Bleeding/screening question: FIT or stool DNA–FITpositive → colonoscopy.

  • Pancreatic pain: Lipase + CMP/liver panel ± triglycerides/calcium; add fecal elastase for chronic steatorrhea.

FAQs

Do stool tests replace colonoscopy?
No. Positive screens or alarm features typically require endoscopy for diagnosis and treatment.

How fast are GI pathogen PCR results?
Often 1–2 days; cultures and ova/parasite exams may take longer.

Can I test for H. pylori while on PPIs or antibiotics?
These can affect accuracy; follow the medication hold instructions on your order.

What distinguishes IBD from IBS in testing?
Fecal calprotectin/lactoferrin and CRP/ESR support IBD when elevated; IBS typically has normal inflammatory markers.

What tests check for malabsorption?
Fecal fatpancreatic elastase, and nutrient panels (iron, B12, folate, vitamin D) provide key clues.

When do I need breath tests?
Use lactose hydrogen/methane for suspected lactose malabsorption and lactulose for SIBO when clinically directed.

Internal Links & Cross-References

  • Digestive System Tests Hub

  • Digestive Health • Colon (Intestine) • Diarrhea • Celiac Disease • H. pylori • Pancreatic Diseases • Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) • Lactose Intolerance

  • Key Lab Tests: Fecal Calprotectin • Fecal Lactoferrin • GI Pathogen PCR • C. difficile Toxin/PCR • FIT • Stool DNA–FIT • H. pylori Stool Antigen • Urea Breath Test • Fecal Fat • Pancreatic Elastase • CBC • CMP • CRP • ESR • Iron/Ferritin • Vitamin B12 • Folate • Vitamin D • Lipase • Liver Enzymes

References

  1. American Gastroenterological Association. Fecal Calprotectin/Lactoferrin in IBD—Technical Review.

  2. Infectious Diseases Society of America. Guidelines for Infectious Diarrhea and C. difficile.

  3. American College of Gastroenterology. H. pylori and Dyspepsia—Diagnosis and Management Guidelines.

  4. U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Colorectal Cancer Screening—Stool-Based Options.

  5. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Digestive Diseases—Testing and Diagnosis.

  6. American College of Gastroenterology/AGA. Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency and Pancreatitis Guidance.

  7. American Society for Clinical Pathology. Appropriate Use of Stool Testing for GI Pathogens.

Available Tests & Panels

Your All Digestive System Tests menu is pre-populated in the Ulta Lab Tests system. Use filters to select inflammation markersinfection panelsH. pylori and celiac evaluations, malabsorption/pancreatic tests, and blood context labs. Review all results with your clinician and plan next steps based on combined findings.

Ulta Lab Tests provides panels of tests for conditions that contain the tests needed to detect and manage the following conditions.

At Ulta Lab Tests, we understand the importance of diagnosing and managing digestive conditions. We provide a comprehensive range of testing solutions to keep your digestive system in optimal health. 

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Name Matches
Blood, Urine, Varied
Blood Draw, Phlebotomist, Urine Collection

Blood, Stool, Urine, Varied
Blood Draw, Phlebotomist, Stool Collection, Urine Collection

The Absolute Lymphocyte Count Test quantifies lymphocytes in blood, expressing immunity status through an absolute cell count rather than relative percentage. It aids in diagnosing immune disorders, tracking viral infection recovery, or identifying early signs of hematologic disease. By distinguishing lymphocytosis and lymphopenia, this test provides clinicians insight into immune suppression, overactivation, or recovery phases in infections or immunocompromised states.

Blood
Blood Draw

The Gastroenteritis Adenovirus Antigen Detection Test identifies adenovirus antigens in stool samples to confirm viral infection linked to acute gastroenteritis. Adenoviruses are a common cause of diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, especially in young children. By detecting viral antigens directly, this test provides rapid diagnostic insight, supporting clinical evaluation of gastrointestinal illness and infection control.

Stool
Stool Collection

The Aldolase Test measures levels of aldolase, an enzyme involved in breaking down glucose for energy. Elevated levels may indicate muscle damage, muscular dystrophy, polymyositis, dermatomyositis, or certain liver diseases. Doctors use this blood test to help diagnose and monitor muscle disorders, evaluate unexplained weakness, and track treatment response. It is often ordered alongside CK and other enzyme tests for a complete evaluation of muscle health.

Blood
Blood Draw

The Alpha-1-Antitrypsin Quantitative Test measures levels of alpha-1-antitrypsin (AAT), a protein that protects the lungs and liver from damage. Low levels may indicate alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency, a genetic disorder linked to emphysema, COPD, and liver disease. Doctors use this test to investigate unexplained lung or liver problems, confirm hereditary AAT deficiency, and guide treatment or monitoring strategies for long-term health management.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Test, A1AT Test, AAT Test, Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Serum Test

Most Popular

The Amylase Test measures amylase enzyme levels in blood to evaluate pancreatic and digestive health. Elevated amylase may indicate pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, intestinal blockage, or salivary gland disorders, while low levels may suggest chronic pancreatitis or liver damage. Doctors order this test to investigate abdominal pain, nausea, or fever. Results provide vital insight into pancreatic function, digestive disorders, and overall metabolic health.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Amy Test

The Amylase Random Urine Test with Creatinine measures amylase excretion corrected for creatinine, ensuring accurate assessment of enzyme activity. Abnormal results may indicate pancreatitis, salivary gland disorders, pancreatic duct obstruction, or impaired kidney clearance. By examining both amylase and creatinine, this test supports evaluation of pancreatic function, renal health, and gastrointestinal enzyme balance.

Urine
Urine Collection

The ANA Screen IFA with Reflex to Titer and Pattern Test detects antinuclear antibodies in blood to evaluate autoimmune activity. If positive, further testing identifies antibody concentration (titer) and fluorescence pattern, helping diagnose conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or Sjögren’s syndrome. Doctors order this test to investigate symptoms such as joint pain, fatigue, rash, or swelling and to guide treatment for autoimmune and connective tissue disorders.

Also Known As: ANA Test, Antinuclear Antibody Screen Test

The ANCA Screen with MPO and PR3 with Reflex to ANCA Titer detects antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies linked to autoimmune vasculitis. By targeting myeloperoxidase (MPO) and proteinase 3 (PR3), this test helps evaluate conditions such as granulomatosis with polyangiitis or microscopic polyangiitis. It supports diagnosis, disease activity monitoring, and assessment of autoimmune inflammation.


The ANCA Screen with Reflex to ANCA Titer detects antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies, often linked to autoimmune vasculitis such as granulomatosis with polyangiitis and microscopic polyangiitis. If the screen is positive, a titer is performed to measure antibody levels for greater diagnostic accuracy. Doctors use this test to evaluate unexplained inflammation, kidney or lung issues, and guide treatment decisions in autoimmune and systemic vasculitis care.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: ANCA Test, cANCA Test, pANCA Test, Serine Protease 3 Test, Acticytoplasmic Test, 3-ANCA test, PR3-ANCA Test, MPO-ANCA test

The ANCA Vasculitides Test measures antibodies that target neutrophils, helping identify autoimmune vasculitis. It aids in diagnosing conditions including granulomatosis with polyangiitis and microscopic polyangiitis. This test provides insight into systemic inflammation, kidney disease, and respiratory involvement, supporting evaluation of autoimmune disorders linked to vascular and organ damage.

Blood
Blood Draw

The Beta-2-Microglobulin (B2M) Test measures levels of B2M, a protein found on most cell surfaces and released into the blood. Elevated levels may indicate multiple myeloma, lymphoma, chronic infections, or kidney disease. Doctors order this test to evaluate cancer stage, prognosis, or kidney function. Results provide essential insight into disease progression, immune activity, and treatment monitoring for blood cancers and renal disorders.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: B2M Test, β2-Microglobulin Test, Thymotaxin Test

The Boron Test measures levels of this trace mineral in the body, providing insight into nutritional balance, bone metabolism, and endocrine health. Boron plays a role in calcium and magnesium utilization, hormone regulation, and cognitive function. Abnormal results may reflect dietary deficiency, excessive supplementation, or environmental exposure, aiding evaluation of metabolic health and mineral balance.

Blood
Blood Draw

Most Popular

The C-Peptide Test measures C-peptide levels in blood to assess insulin production and pancreatic function. Low levels may indicate type 1 diabetes or reduced insulin production, while high levels may suggest type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, or insulinoma. Doctors use this test to differentiate diabetes types, monitor treatment, and evaluate unexplained hypoglycemia. It provides key insight into endocrine, pancreatic, and metabolic health.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Connecting Peptide Insulin Test, Proinsulin C-Peptide Test

The C-Peptide Response to Glucose Test with 2 specimens evaluates pancreatic beta cell activity and insulin secretion during glucose intake. By measuring changes in C-peptide levels at two time points, it helps assess insulin production, glucose regulation, and potential insulin resistance or diabetes-related disorders. This test offers insight into metabolic health and endocrine function.

Blood
Blood Draw

The C-Peptide Response to Glucose Test with 3 specimens measures pancreatic beta cell function and insulin secretion at multiple time points. Tracking C-peptide levels across three collections provides insight into insulin production, glucose regulation, and metabolic health, supporting evaluation of diabetes risk, hypoglycemia, and overall endocrine function.

Blood
Blood Draw

The C-Peptide Response to Glucose Test with 4 specimens measures pancreatic beta cell activity and insulin secretion across four timed intervals. Tracking C-peptide changes provides insight into glucose regulation, insulin production, and metabolic function, helping evaluate diabetes risk, hypoglycemia, insulin resistance, and overall endocrine health.

Blood
Blood Draw

The C-Peptide Response to Glucose Test with 5 specimens measures pancreatic beta cell activity and insulin secretion across five timed intervals. Tracking C-peptide levels over multiple points provides detailed insight into glucose regulation, insulin resistance, hypoglycemia, and diabetes risk, supporting evaluation of metabolic balance and overall endocrine health.

Blood
Blood Draw

The C-Peptide Response to Glucose Test with 6 specimens measures pancreatic beta cell activity and insulin secretion at six timed intervals. Tracking C-peptide levels across multiple points provides a detailed profile of insulin production, glucose regulation, and metabolic health, supporting assessment of insulin resistance, hypoglycemia, diabetes risk, and overall endocrine function.

Blood
Blood Draw

The C-Peptide Response to Glucose Test with 7 specimens measures pancreatic beta cell activity and insulin secretion across seven timed intervals. Monitoring C-peptide changes over multiple collections provides detailed insight into insulin production, glucose regulation, and metabolic balance, supporting evaluation of diabetes risk, hypoglycemia, insulin resistance, and endocrine system health.

Blood
Blood Draw

The C-Peptide Response to Glucose Test with 9 specimens measures pancreatic beta cell activity and insulin secretion across nine timed intervals. Tracking C-peptide patterns provides detailed insight into insulin production, glucose regulation, and metabolic health, supporting the detection of insulin resistance, diabetes risk, hypoglycemia, and overall endocrine function.

Blood
Blood Draw

The C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Test measures CRP levels in blood to detect inflammation in the body. Elevated CRP may indicate infections, autoimmune disorders, or chronic diseases such as arthritis, cardiovascular disease, or inflammatory bowel disease. Doctors use this test to assess acute illness, monitor treatment response, and evaluate risk for heart disease. The CRP test provides key insight into inflammation, immune health, and overall wellness.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: CRP Test, Inflammation Test

Most Popular

The High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) Test measures very low levels of CRP in blood to evaluate inflammation and cardiovascular risk. Elevated hs-CRP may indicate increased risk for heart disease, heart attack, or stroke even before symptoms appear. Doctors use this test along with cholesterol and other markers to assess overall heart health, guide prevention strategies, and monitor treatment. It also helps evaluate chronic inflammation and metabolic conditions.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Cardiac CRP Test, High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein Test

The C3a DesArg Fragment Test measures levels of C3a desarginated, a stable breakdown product of complement activation. Elevated concentrations reflect immune system activation and may indicate autoimmune disease, sepsis, allergic reactions, or inflammatory conditions. This test provides insight into complement pathway activity, helping evaluate immune dysregulation, monitor disease progression, or assess systemic inflammation.


People tend to overlook their digestive health. With so much focus on cancer, heart attacks, and strokes, it's easy for your gut health to get lost in the shuffle. 

That's why it's vital to have digestive lab tests done regularly. Catching digestive system conditions before they start is the best way to treat them. 

If monitoring your gut health is new to you, don't worry. In this article, we're going to cover everything you need to know about your gut.  

Digestive System Conditions 

There are different kinds of gastrointestinal lab tests to monitor different enzymes and bacteria in your gut. The bacteria in your gut is known as "good bacteria." These bacteria need to maintain their presence in your stomach for the system to remain healthy in the long run. An unhealthy digestive system can give rise to the following conditions.

Celiac Disease 

This is an acute gluten sensitivity in the digestive system. People with celiac disease suffer from an immune response triggered in the small intestine whenever they eat foods containing gluten. Gluten is common in flour and wheat-based products. If you don't treat celiac disease, it can affect the absorption of nutrients in your small intestines, and the lining of your small intestine will begin to deteriorate over time. The damage done by celiac disease to your small intestines can lead to more severe complications in the future. 

Symptoms of Celiac Disease include: 

  • Fatigue 
  • Diarrhea 
  • Abdominal pain 
  • Bloating 
  • Constipation 
  • Weight loss 
  • Nausea and vomiting 

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) 

Inflammatory Bowel Disease is a blanket term that covers several conditions that affect the bowels. The two major types of inflammatory bowel disease are colitis & Crohn's disease. Ulcerative colitis involves ulcers and inflammation along the lining of the large intestine. This condition can affect your rectum and colon too. Crohn's disease has similar symptoms to colitis and also involves the swelling of the digestive tract. Crohn's can affect the deeper layers of the digestive tract. 

Symptoms Of Inflammatory Bowel Disease include:

  • Abdominal pain 
  • Diarrhea 
  • Fatigue 
  • Fast weight loss 
  • Loss of appetite 
  • Blood in stools  

Inflammatory Bowel Syndrome (IBS) 

IBS affects the lower and upper regions of the GI tract. The condition can affect the small intestines, large intestines, and colon at the same time—people suffering from IBS experience chronic constipation, chronic diarrhea, or both. Medical experts believe that IBS occurs due to severe food poisoning. 

Lactose Intolerance 

Lactose intolerance is the inability to digest lactose. This condition occurs due to a lack of lactase enzymes in the digestive system. Lactase is the enzyme responsible for processing lactose in the body. When lactase levels are low in a person's body, they may suffer from lactose intolerance.  

Symptoms Of Lactose Intolerance include:

  • Bloating 
  • Diarrhea 
  • Gas 
  • Pancreatic disease 
  • Stomach cramps 
  • Nausea and vomiting   

Pancreatic Diseases

Problems in your digestive tract can result in several pancreatic diseases, including acute pancreatitis. If you don't treat acute pancreatitis on time, it can lead to much bigger problems in the long run. 

Symptoms Of Pancreas Malfunction include:

  • Nausea and vomiting 
  • Excess gas 
  • Abdominal pain and swelling 
  • Weight loss 
  • Malnutrition 
  • Fever 
  • Light-colored stools  
  • Foul-smelling stools 
  • Diarrhea 

If you have any of these symptoms for more than 2-3 days, make sure you consult a doctor.  

Peptic Ulcers 

Peptic ulcers develop in the inner lining of the stomach. They usually affect the upper section of the small intestine and occur as duodenal ulcers or gastric ulcers. While duodenal ulcers occur in the upper section of the small intestine or the duodenum, gastric ulcers will occur in the stomach.  

Symptoms Of Peptic Ulcers include:

  • Bloating 
  • Feeling full 
  • Heartburn 
  • Belching 
  • Nausea 
  • Burning pain in the stomach 
  • Intolerance to fatty foods 

Lab Tests for Digestive Conditions 

Digestive lab tests help screen, diagnose, and monitor various digestive conditions. Two of the most common and effective digestive lab tests are the stool culture and fecal occult test. The fecal occult test checks for blood in your stool. The test is conducted by placing a fecal sample on a special card. The card is then sent to a lab for testing. The stool culture test searches for abnormal bacteria in the stool, and results will take at least 2-3 days. 

In addition to the above tests, doctors can use imaging tests to take an in-depth look at a patient's digestive system.  

Here are some of the most popular procedures to monitor digestive conditions: 

  • Lower GI series 
  • CT or CAT scan 
  • MRI 
  • Upper GI series 
  • Colonoscopy 
  • Ultrasound 

Digestive System Lab Tests FAQs 

Digestive conditions cover a wide range of diseases affecting the digestive system of a person. If you don't know what you are looking for, it is easy for these conditions to be overlooked. Here are some of the most common FAQs about digestive disorders and lab tests: 

Q. What are the most common problems in the GI tract? 

Heartburn, IBS, and cancer are some of the most common conditions that affect a person's digestive system. Rectal problems such as fissures and hemorrhoids also can occur.  

Q. What are the most common signs and symptoms of digestive conditions? 

  • Abdominal pain 
  • Bloating 
  • Swelling 
  • Belching 
  • Diarrhea 
  • Gas  
  • Fatigue 
  • Constipation 

If you experience any of these symptoms regularly, you should consult a doctor. 

Q. Does bloodwork reveal digestive problems? 

Yes. Your doctor can order blood tests to diagnose a digestive problem. The tests will check for levels of specific substances in the blood. Bloodwork is common in diagnosing Celiac disease, ulcerative colitis, or Crohn's disease. 

Solving Your Digestive Problems 

Ulta Lab Tests offers highly accurate and reliable tests so that you can make informed decisions about your health. Here are some things that you will love about Ulta Lab Tests: 

  • You don't need health insurance 
  • Your results are confidential and secure 
  • We offer affordable rates for lab tests 
  • You don't need a physician's referral 
  • 100% satisfaction guarantee 

Take control with Ulta Lab Tests today!