Inflammatory bowel diseases

The eosinophilic protein X (EPX) is released by activated eosinophilic granulocytes and plays an important role as a cytotoxic protein in the defence against parasites and bacteria. Increased release can be triggered by IgE-mediated food allergies, parasitosis or inflammatory diseases of the intestinal mucosa. In chronic inflammatory bowel diseases, EPX can be used as a marker of disease activity and progression parameters. When the gastric mucosa is infected with Helicobacter pylori, live or dead pathogens are permanently excreted with the stool. The enzyme immunoassay can detect their antigens in faeces with a high degree of sensitivity and specificity.