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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The Total Immunoglobulins Panel measures IgA, IgG, and IgM levels to evaluate immune system function. Abnormal results may indicate immune deficiency, chronic infections, autoimmune disorders, or certain blood cancers. IgA helps protect mucous membranes, IgG provides long-term defense, and IgM is the body’s first response to infection. Doctors use this blood test to diagnose, monitor, and manage immune-related conditions and overall immune health.

Blood
Blood Draw

Blood
Blood Draw

Most Popular

The Transferrin Test measures transferrin, a blood protein that transports iron, to evaluate iron status and nutritional health. High levels may suggest iron deficiency anemia, while low levels may indicate liver disease, malnutrition, or chronic illness. Doctors use this test alongside iron and TIBC to investigate fatigue, weakness, or anemia symptoms. Results provide vital insight into iron balance, red blood cell production, and overall metabolic function.

Blood
Blood Draw

Most Popular

The Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) Test measures TSH levels in blood to assess thyroid function and diagnose hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. It evaluates how the thyroid controls metabolism, energy, weight, and heart rate. Doctors use the TSH test to investigate symptoms such as fatigue, hair loss, or mood changes. Frequently included in routine health exams, it is also key for monitoring thyroid disease treatment and overall endocrine balance.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Thyroid Stimulating Hormone Test, Thyrotropin Test, 3rd Generation TSH Test, Highly Sensitive TSH Test

The Tissue Transglutaminase (tTG) IgA Antibody Test screens for celiac disease by detecting IgA antibodies against tissue transglutaminase, a marker of gluten intolerance. Elevated levels suggest an autoimmune reaction that damages the small intestine. Doctors order this test for patients with chronic diarrhea, bloating, weight loss, or anemia. Results provide critical insight for diagnosing celiac disease and guiding gluten-free diet management.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As:

Tissue Transglutaminase IgA Antibody Test, Anti-tTG IgA Test


The Tissue Transglutaminase (tTG) IgG Antibody Test helps diagnose celiac disease in patients with IgA deficiency by detecting IgG antibodies against tissue transglutaminase. Elevated levels suggest an autoimmune reaction to gluten that damages the small intestine, leading to malabsorption, diarrhea, or anemia. Doctors order this test to confirm gluten intolerance, support diagnosis of celiac disease, and monitor adherence to a gluten-free diet.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As:

Tissue Transglutaminase IgG Antibody Test, Anti-tTG IgG Test


The Tissue Transglutaminase IgG IgA Antibodies Test detects both IgG and IgA antibodies to tissue transglutaminase, which are commonly elevated in celiac disease. It helps screen for and diagnose celiac disease by identifying an immune response to gluten and may also be used to monitor treatment and dietary adherence.

Blood
Blood Draw
Panel Contains Test: Tissue Transglutaminase IgG IgA Antibodies Test


Blood, Other
Blood Draw, Phlebotomist

Serum
Phlebotomist

Blood
Blood Draw, Phlebotomist

Most Popular

The Uric Acid Test measures uric acid levels in blood to assess kidney function and detect gout, a form of arthritis caused by uric acid buildup. High levels may also signal kidney disease, kidney stones, or metabolic disorders, while low levels can occur with liver disease. Doctors use this test to investigate joint pain, swelling, or frequent urination, and to monitor treatment for gout, kidney stones, or chemotherapy-related complications.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Serum Urate Test

The Vasoactive Intestinal Polypeptide Test evaluates VIP levels in the blood, helping identify abnormal hormone activity linked to gastrointestinal function. High VIP levels may suggest VIPoma, watery diarrhea syndrome, or pancreatic endocrine tumors, while abnormal results may point to hormonal imbalances. By assessing this peptide, the test supports diagnosis of rare neuroendocrine conditions and disorders affecting digestion and fluid regulation.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: VIP Test

The Vitamin A Micronutrient Test measures blood levels of vitamin A (retinol) to assess nutritional status and detect deficiencies or excesses. Adequate vitamin A is essential for vision, immune defense, reproduction, and cellular health. This test helps evaluate malnutrition, absorption issues, or toxicity from supplements, supporting diagnosis and monitoring of overall health.

Patient must be 18 years of age or older.
Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Retinol Test

Most Popular

The Vitamin A Test measures blood levels of vitamin A, a nutrient essential for vision, immune function, reproduction, and skin health. Low levels may indicate malnutrition, fat malabsorption, or liver disease, while high levels may suggest toxicity from over-supplementation. Doctors use this test to investigate night blindness, frequent infections, or poor wound healing. Results provide vital insight into nutritional status, metabolic function, and overall wellness.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Retinol Test

The Vitamin B12 and Folate Panel Test measures blood levels of vitamin B12 and folate to evaluate nutritional status, red blood cell production, and nervous system health. Deficiencies may cause anemia, fatigue, weakness, neuropathy, or cognitive decline, while elevated levels can indicate liver or kidney disease. Doctors use this panel to diagnose deficiency, monitor therapy, and assess absorption disorders such as pernicious anemia, Crohn’s disease, or celiac disease.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Cobalamin and Folic Acid Test, Vitamin B12 and Vitamin B9 Test

The Vitamin B12 Micronutrient Test measures blood levels of vitamin B12, essential for red blood cell production, nerve health, and DNA synthesis. Deficiency can cause anemia, fatigue, neurological issues, and cognitive changes. This test helps identify dietary deficiencies, absorption problems, or related health conditions, supporting diagnosis and ongoing management of overall wellness.

Patient must be 18 years of age or older.
Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: B12 Test, Cobalamin Test

Most Popular

The Vitamin B12 Test measures cobalamin levels in blood to evaluate nutritional health, red blood cell production, and nervous system function. Low B12 can cause anemia, fatigue, weakness, memory problems, and nerve damage, while high levels may indicate liver or kidney disease. Doctors use this test to detect B12 deficiency, monitor treatment, and assess malabsorption conditions like pernicious anemia, Crohn’s disease, or celiac disease.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: B12 Test, Cobalamin Test

The Vitamin D 1,25-Dihydroxy Test measures the active form of vitamin D in blood to evaluate calcium and phosphorus balance, bone health, and kidney function. Abnormal levels may indicate kidney disease, parathyroid disorders, or problems with calcium metabolism. Doctors order this test when deficiency symptoms don’t match 25-hydroxy vitamin D results or to monitor chronic illness. Results provide vital insight into vitamin D activity, mineral health, and metabolic function.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Calcitriol Test

The Vitamin D 25-Hydroxy Total Test measures levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D in blood to evaluate vitamin D status, bone health, and calcium balance. It helps detect deficiency, insufficiency, or toxicity, which can affect immune function, muscle strength, and risk of osteoporosis. Doctors use this test to assess overall nutritional health, monitor supplementation, and support diagnosis of metabolic or endocrine disorders linked to vitamin D.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: 25-hydroxyvitamin D Test, Vitamin D 25-OH Test, Total 25-OH D Test

The Vitamin E Micronutrient Test measures blood levels of vitamin E to assess antioxidant status and detect deficiencies or excess. Vitamin E protects cells from oxidative damage, supports immune function, and promotes cardiovascular and neurological health. This test helps identify poor dietary intake, absorption issues, or toxicity from supplements, aiding in diagnosis and management of overall wellness.

Patient must be 18 years of age or older.
Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Tocopherol Test

Most Popular

The Vitamin E Test measures blood levels of vitamin E, a fat-soluble antioxidant essential for protecting cells, supporting immunity, and maintaining nerve and muscle health. Low levels may result from poor diet, malabsorption, or liver disease, leading to weakness or vision problems. High levels can occur with excessive supplementation. Doctors order this test to assess nutritional status, monitor chronic illness, or guide therapy for deficiency or toxicity.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Tocopherol Test

Most Popular

The Vitamin K Test measures blood levels of vitamin K, a nutrient essential for blood clotting, bone strength, and heart health. Deficiency may cause easy bruising, excessive bleeding, or weakened bones, and can result from poor diet, liver disease, or malabsorption. Doctors order this test to investigate clotting problems, monitor anticoagulant therapy, or assess nutritional status. Results help guide treatment, supplementation, and long-term health management.

Blood
Blood Draw

The White Blood Cell Count with Differential Test measures total white blood cells and breaks them into types, including neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils. Doctors order this test to evaluate infections, inflammation, immune disorders, and blood cancers. Abnormal results may suggest bacterial or viral infections, allergies, or leukemia. Results provide key insight into immune system health, disease detection, and treatment monitoring.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: WBC Test, Leukocyte Test, Leukocyte Differential Test, Blood Differential Test, Diff Test, Peripheral Differential Test

Blood
Blood Draw

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!