The ALPCO Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay is an in-vitro diagnostic assay used for the quantitative measurement of human fecal calprotectin in human stool. The ALPCO Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay is intended for in-vitro diagnostic use as an aid in diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), specifically Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), and as an aid in the differentiation of IBD from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in conjunction with other clinical and laboratory findings.
Device Story
The ALPCO Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay is an in-vitro diagnostic test for quantitative measurement of fecal calprotectin. Stool samples are prepared using the ALPCO Easy Stool Extraction Device or a manual weighing/homogenization method. The assay is performed on the Beckman AU680 analyzer. It utilizes a particle-enhanced immunoturbidimetric principle: calprotectin in the sample binds to anti-calprotectin antibodies coated on latex particles, causing agglutination. The resulting absorbance change is proportional to calprotectin concentration, determined via a calibration curve. The device is used in clinical laboratories by trained personnel. Results are reported in µg/g and interpreted as normal (<50 µg/g), equivocal (50–100 µg/g), or elevated (>100 µg/g). These results assist clinicians in diagnosing IBD and differentiating it from IBS, potentially reducing the need for invasive procedures like colonoscopy in patients with low calprotectin levels.
Clinical Evidence
No clinical data provided; substantial equivalence is supported by analytical performance data (bench testing) demonstrating the assay's ability to accurately and reproducibly quantify fecal calprotectin compared to the predicate device.
Technological Characteristics
Particle-enhanced immunoturbidimetric assay. Reagents: Tris buffer, latex particles coated with mouse monoclonal anti-calprotectin IgG. Analytical measuring interval: 11.0–1000.0 µg/g. Instrument: Beckman AU680 analyzer. Standards: CLSI EP05-A3, EP06-Ed2, EP07, EP17-A2, EP28-A3c. Stability: 24 months at 2–8°C; 30 days on-board.
Indications for Use
Indicated for quantitative measurement of human fecal calprotectin in stool samples to aid in the diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, and to differentiate IBD from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in conjunction with other clinical findings.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
A fecal calprotectin immunological test system is an in vitro diagnostic device that consists of reagents used to quantitatively measure, by immunochemical techniques, fecal calprotectin in human stool specimens. The device is intended for in vitro diagnostic use as an aid in the diagnosis of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), specifically Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, and as an aid in differentiation of IBD from irritable bowel syndrome.
Special Controls
The device is classified as Class II under regulation 21 CFR 866.5180 with special controls. The special control guidance document, "Class II Special Controls Guidance Document: Fecal Calprotectin Immunological Test Systems" will be available shortly.
*Classification.* Class II (special controls). The special control for these devices is FDA's guidance document entitled “Class II Special Controls Guidance Document: Fecal Calprotectin Immunological Test Systems.” For the availability of this guidance document, see § 866.1(e).
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FDA U.S. FOOD & DRUG ADMINISTRATION
# 510(k) SUBSTANTIAL EQUIVALENCE DETERMINATION DECISION SUMMARY
ASSAY ONLY
## I Background Information:
A 510(k) Number
K220763
B Applicant
ALPCO
C Proprietary and Established Names
ALPCO Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay
D Regulatory Information
| Product Code(s) | Classification | Regulation Section | Panel |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| NXO | Class II | 21 CFR 866.5180 - Fecal Calprotectin Immunological Test System | IM - Immunology |
## II Submission/Device Overview:
A Purpose for Submission:
New device
B Measurand:
Fecal calprotectin
C Type of Test:
Quantitative, immunoturbidimetric assay
## III Intended Use/Indications for Use:
Food and Drug Administration
10903 New Hampshire Avenue
Silver Spring, MD 20993-0002
www.fda.gov
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K220763 - Page 2 of 15
# A Intended Use(s):
See Indications for Use below.
# B Indication(s) for Use:
The ALPCO Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay is an in-vitro diagnostic assay used for the quantitative measurement of human fecal calprotectin in human stool. The ALPCO Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay is intended for in-vitro diagnostic use as an aid in diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), specifically Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), and as an aid in the differentiation of IBD from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in conjunction with other clinical and laboratory findings.
# C Special Conditions for Use Statement(s):
Rx - For Prescription Use Only
# D Special Instrument Requirements:
Beckman AU680 analyzer
# IV Device/System Characteristics:
# A Device Description:
The ALPCO Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay consists of the following materials:
Materials provided (100 tests):
- Reagent 1: Tris buffer solution with <0.1% sodium azide, ready to use, 1 x 22.5 mL
- Reagent 2: Suspension of latex particles (< 0.5%) coated with anti-calprotectin antibodies with <0.1% sodium azide, ready to use, 1 x 5.3 mL
Materials Required but not Provided:
The ALPCO Calprotectin Calibrator Set
5 levels: 50, 200, 500, 800, 1050 µg/g, 5 x 1 mL, sold separately
The Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay Control Set
2 levels: Control 1: 35 µg/g; Control 2: 135 µg/g), 2 x 1 mL, sold separately
Feces sample collection
1) Sample collection tube
2) Transport container
Feces preparation:
The ALPCO Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay can prepare fecal samples by ALPCO Easy Stool Extraction Device (sold separately) or manual weighing method.
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Instrument:
Beckman AU680 analyzer
## B Principle of Operation:
The ALPCO Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay is a particle-enhanced immunoturbidimetric assay. Calprotectin in the sample binds to anti-calprotectin antibodies immobilized on the latex particles, which causes agglutination. This agglutination is detected as an absorbance change and the amount of agglutination is directly proportional to the concentration of calprotectin in the sample. The concentration is determined by interpolation from a calibration curve prepared from calibrators of known concentration.
The fecal samples can be processed and extracted using ALPCO Easy Stool Extraction Device or manual weighing method.
The ALPCO Easy Stool Extraction Device should not be used for the extraction of liquid/watery stool samples. Refer to K191807 for the fecal specimen preparation using the ALPCO Easy Stool Extraction Device.
For manual weighing method, 50 to 100 mg of the stool sample is taken by the inoculation loop and placed it into the pre-weighed tube. The sample is weighed and Extraction Buffer is added (99 times the sample weight volume). Further, the sample is homogenized on a multi-tube vortex by vigorous shaking (at highest speed) for 30 minutes. Next, the sample is centrifuged for 5 minutes at 3000 x g. Finally, decant the supernatant into a fresh labeled tube and continue with the assay procedure or store the extracts at 2–8°C for up to 3 days or at -80°C for up to 14 days.
Results are reported in µg/g of calprotectin in stool. Interpretation of results is shown as follows:
| Calprotectin Concentration | Interpretation | Follow-Up |
| --- | --- | --- |
| < 50 µg/g | Normal | None |
| 50–100 µg/g | Equivocal | Retest in 4–6 weeks |
| > 100 µg/g | Elevated | Repeat as clinically indicated |
## V Substantial Equivalence Information:
### A Predicate Device Name(s):
ALPCO Calprotectin Chemiluminescence ELISA, ALPCO Easy Stool Extraction Device
### B Predicate 510(k) Number(s):
K191807
### C Comparison with Predicate(s):
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K220763 - Page 4 of 15
| Device & Predicate Device(s): | K220763
(New Device) | K191807
(Predicate) |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Device Trade Name | ALPCO Calprotectin
Immunoturbidimetric Assay | ALPCO Calprotectin
Chemiluminescence ELISA |
| **General Device Characteristic Similarities** | | |
| Intended Use / Indications For Use | The ALPCO Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay is an in-vitro diagnostic assay used for the quantitative measurement of human fecal calprotectin in human stool. The ALPCO Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay is intended for in-vitro diagnostic use as an aid in diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), specifically Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), and as an aid in the differentiation of IBD from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in conjunction with other clinical and laboratory findings. | The ALPCO Calprotectin Chemiluminescence ELISA is an in vitro diagnostic chemiluminescent assay intended for the quantitative measurement of fecal calprotectin, a neutrophilic protein that is a marker of intestinal mucosal inflammation, in human stool. The ALPCO Calprotectin Chemiluminescence ELISA is intended for in vitro diagnostic use as an aid in the diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), specifically Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), and as an aid in the differentiation of IBD from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in conjunction with other clinical and laboratory findings. |
| Analyte | Fecal Calprotectin | Same |
| Type of Test | Quantitative | Same |
| Sample Matrix | Human stool | Same |
| Extraction Procedure | ALPCO Easy Stool Extraction Device or manual weighting method | Same |
| Calibrator / Control Analyte | Native human calprotectin | Same |
| Results Interpretation | Normal: < 50 µg/g
Equivocal: 50–100 µg/g
Abnormal: >100 µg/g | Same |
| **General Device Characteristic Differences** | | |
| Methodology | Immunoturbidimetric Assay | Chemiluminescence ELISA |
| Analytical Measuring Interval (AMI) | 11.0–1000.0 µg/g | 7.9–6000 µg/g |
| Assay Process | Automated | Manual ELISA |
| Sample Dilution | 1:100 | 1:25000 |
| Instrument | Beckman AU680 analyzer | Not applicable |
| Capture Antibody | Mouse monoclonal IgG antibodies immobilized on latex particles | Mouse monoclonal IgG antibodies immobilized on plate |
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| Detection Antibody | Not applicable | Biotinylated mouse monoclonal anti-calprotectin antibody |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Calibrators | Ready to use
5 levels: 50, 200, 500, 800, 1050 μg/g | Lyophilized
8 levels: 0, 5, 20, 40, 156, 625, 2500, 10000 μg/g |
| Controls | Ready to use 2 levels:
Control 1: 35 μg/g
Control 2: 135 μg/g | Lyophilized, 3 levels:
Control 1: 20–40 μg/g
Control 2: 80–125 μg/g
Control 3: 1250–2500 μg/g |
| Shelf-Life (Kit) | 2–8°C for 24 months | 2–8°C for 18 months |
VI Standards/Guidance Documents Referenced:
- CLSI EP05-A3, Evaluation of Precision of Quantitative Measurement Procedures, Approved Guideline – Third Edition
- CLSI EP06-Ed2, Evaluation of the Linearity of Quantitative Measurement Procedures – Second Edition
- CLSI EP07, Interference Testing in Clinical Chemistry – Third Edition
- CLSI EP17-A2, Evaluation of Detection Capability for Clinical Laboratory Measurement Procedures; Approved Guideline – Second Edition
- CLSI EP28-A3c, Defining, Establishing, and Verifying Reference Intervals in the Clinical Laboratory, Approved Guideline – Third Edition
- Class II Special Controls Guidance Document: Fecal Calprotectin Immunological Test Systems - Guidance for Industry and FDA Staff, July (2006)
VII Performance Characteristics (if/when applicable):
A Analytical Performance:
All results met the manufacturer’s pre-determined acceptance criteria.
1. Precision/Reproducibility:
Within-Laboratory Precision
A study was conducted in accordance with CLSI EP05-A3 to evaluate repeatability and within-lab imprecision of the ALPCO Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay. The study was performed at one site/laboratory, using one reagent lot and calibrators, one Beckman Coulter AU680 analyzer, and one operator. Seven stool extracts were prepared using the ALPCO Easy Stool Extraction Device from seven human stool samples. The extracts were analyzed in duplicate per run, two runs per day, for 20 days to generate a total of 80 replicates per sample. The results (within-run, between-run, between-day, and within-laboratory) are shown in the following table:
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| Sample | N | Mean (μg/g) | Within-run | | Between-run | | Between-day | | Within-Lab | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| | | | SD | %CV | SD | %CV | SD | %CV | SD | %CV |
| 1 | 80 | 14.4 | 1.7 | 12.1 | 1.5 | 10.2 | 1.4 | 9.9 | 2.2 | 15.0 |
| 2 | 80 | 37.6 | 2.2 | 5.9 | 1.9 | 5.1 | 1.5 | 3.9 | 2.5 | 6.7 |
| 3 | 80 | 81.3 | 2.1 | 2.6 | 2.2 | 2.7 | 2.3 | 2.8 | 3.1 | 3.9 |
| 4 | 80 | 173.8 | 3.3 | 1.9 | 4.2 | 2.4 | 6.5 | 3.7 | 7.5 | 4.3 |
| 5 | 80 | 414.5 | 4.2 | 1.0 | 6.7 | 1.6 | 9.2 | 2.2 | 10.8 | 2.6 |
| 6 | 80 | 622.5 | 5.5 | 0.9 | 6.8 | 1.1 | 13.8 | 2.2 | 15.1 | 2.4 |
| 7 | 80 | 854.8 | 9.0 | 1.1 | 9.5 | 1.1 | 12.5 | 1.5 | 15.6 | 1.8 |
Lot-to-Lot Precision
The lot-to-lot imprecision of the ALPCO Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay was evaluated in accordance with CLSI EP05-A3. The study was performed using three reagent lots and one lot of calibrators, one AU680 analyzer, at one site, by one operator. Seven human stool samples containing various fecal calprotectin concentrations were extracted using the ALPCO Easy Stool Extraction Device and analyzed in five replicates, once per day, for 5 days to generate a total of 75 replicates per sample. The results are summarized in the following table:
| Sample | N | Mean (μg/g) | Within-run | | Between-Day | | Between-Lot | | Total | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| | | | SD | %CV | SD | %CV | SD | %CV | SD | %CV |
| 1 | 75 | 14.3 | 1.8 | 12.3 | 1.5 | 10.3 | 1.6 | 11.3 | 2.8 | 19.6 |
| 2 | 75 | 38.4 | 1.9 | 4.9 | 1.4 | 3.6 | 1.8 | 4.6 | 2.9 | 7.6 |
| 3 | 75 | 86.0 | 2.6 | 3.1 | 2.5 | 2.9 | 4.0 | 4.6 | 5.4 | 6.2 |
| 4 | 75 | 173.4 | 3.6 | 2.1 | 3.9 | 2.3 | 5.0 | 2.9 | 7.3 | 4.2 |
| 5 | 75 | 416.5 | 5.0 | 1.2 | 7.8 | 1.9 | 10.1 | 2.4 | 13.8 | 3.3 |
| 6 | 75 | 626.3 | 7.1 | 1.1 | 9.5 | 1.5 | 11.4 | 1.8 | 16.5 | 2.6 |
| 7 | 75 | 869.8 | 7.5 | 0.9 | 8.9 | 1.0 | 11.3 | 1.3 | 16.3 | 1.9 |
Site-to-Site Reproducibility
The study was performed using one reagent lot and one lot of calibrators, three AU680 analyzers at three sites, and three operators (one operator per instrument/site). Seven stool samples containing various fecal calprotectin concentrations were extracted using the ALPCO Easy Stool Extraction Device and analyzed in five replicates per run, one run per day, for 5 days to generate a total of 75 replicates per sample. The results are reported in the following tables:
| Sample | N | Mean (μg/g) | Within-run | | Between-Day | | Between-Site | | Total | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| | | | SD | %CV | SD | %CV | SD | %CV | SD | %CV |
| 1 | 75 | 11.2 | 1.8 | 15.7 | 1.7 | 14.9 | 1.8 | 16.2 | 3.0 | 27.1 |
| 2 | 75 | 35.0 | 2.1 | 6.0 | 1.7 | 4.8 | 3.2 | 9.2 | 4.2 | 11.9 |
| 3 | 75 | 77.3 | 3.2 | 4.1 | 2.6 | 3.3 | 3.3 | 4.3 | 5.3 | 6.8 |
| 4 | 75 | 168.5 | 2.9 | 1.7 | 6.1 | 3.6 | 6.7 | 4.0 | 9.5 | 5.6 |
| 5 | 75 | 445.7 | 4.7 | 1.0 | 5.8 | 1.3 | 9.6 | 2.2 | 12.2 | 2.7 |
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Extraction Precision:
Refer to K191807 for extraction device precision using the ALPCO Easy Stool Extraction Device.
## 2. Linearity:
The linearity study was performed following CLSI EP06-Ed2 using two sample panels. Sample Panel 1 was prepared by dilution of a high native sample pool (576.3 µg/g) with a low native sample pool (9.2 µg/g) to obtain 11 dilutions. Sample Panel 2 was prepared by dilution of a high native sample pool (1285.4 µg/g) with a low native sample pool (10.8 µg/g) to obtain 11 dilutions. The samples were tested in triplicate, using one reagent lot. The expected value, predicted value, and deviation from predicted were calculated. The results are summarized in the following tables:
Sample Panel 1
| Sample Dilution | Mean Measured Value (µg/g) | Expected Value (µg/g) | Predicted Value (µg/g) | Deviation (µg/g) | % Deviation |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 1 | 9.2 | 9.2 | 9.3 | -0.1 | -0.9% |
| 2 | 60.5 | 65.9 | 66.3 | -5.8 | -8.8% |
| 3 | 113.6 | 122.6 | 123.3 | -9.7 | -7.9% |
| 4 | 166.1 | 179.3 | 180.4 | -14.3 | -7.9% |
| 5 | 221.6 | 236.0 | 237.4 | -15.9 | -6.7% |
| 6 | 275.1 | 292.8 | 294.5 | -19.4 | -6.6% |
| 7 | 341.5 | 349.5 | 351.5 | -10.0 | -2.9% |
| 8 | 417.0 | 406.2 | 408.6 | 8.4 | 2.1% |
| 9 | 471.9 | 462.9 | 465.6 | 6.3 | 1.3% |
| 10 | 543.0 | 519.6 | 522.7 | 20.3 | 3.9% |
| 11 | 576.3 | 576.3 | 579.7 | -3.5 | -0.6% |
Sample Panel 2
| Sample Dilution | Mean Measured Value (µg/g) | Expected Value (µg/g) | Predicted Value (µg/g) | Deviation (µg/g) | % Deviation |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 1 | 10.4 | 10.8 | 10.5 | 0.0 | -0.4% |
| 2 | 95.4 | 100.0 | 97.0 | -1.6 | -1.7% |
| 3 | 185.3 | 199.4 | 193.5 | -8.2 | -4.2% |
| 4 | 290.3 | 304.0 | 294.8 | -4.6 | -1.5% |
| 5 | 398.8 | 399.6 | 387.6 | 11.2 | 2.9% |
| 6 | 487.3 | 501.5 | 486.5 | 0.8 | 0.2% |
| 7 | 604.5 | 603.5 | 585.4 | 19.2 | 3.3% |
| 8 | 716.3 | 702.3 | 681.2 | 35.1 | 5.1% |
| 9 | 798.8 | 801.1 | 777.0 | 21.8 | 2.8% |
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| Sample Dilution | Mean Measured Value (μg/g) | Expected Value (μg/g) | Predicted Value (μg/g) | Deviation (μg/g) | % Deviation |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 10 | 887.9 | 899.8 | 872.8 | 15.1 | 1.7% |
| 11 | 995.9 | 998.6 | 968.6 | 27.3 | 2.8% |
Linear Regression Summary
| Dilution Panel | Range (μg/g) | Slope (95%CI) | Intercept (95%CI) | R² | Recovery Range (%) |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Sample Panel 1 | 9.2–576.3 | 1.03 (0.99–1.07) | -12.74 (-27.18–1.71) | 0.997 | 91.2–103.9 |
| Sample Panel 2 | 10.4–995.9 | 1.01 (0.99–1.03) | -6.95 (-18.40–4.49) | 0.999 | 93.1–102.2 |
| Combined | 9.2–995.9 | 1.04 (1.02–1.06) | -12.19 (-20.28– -4.10) | 0.999 | 91.2–103.9 |
Linearity was supported for the analytical measuring interval from 11.0 μg/g to 1000.0 μg/g.
## Spiking Recovery:
The recovery of the ALPCO Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay was evaluated using seven extracted stool samples containing various concentrations of calprotectin across the analytical measuring interval of the assay. Purified native calprotectin diluted in standard diluent was used as the spiking material in a proportion of nine parts of sample to one part spiking material. Recovery was calculated compared to the baseline result. Percent recoveries ranged from 95.5% to 106.5%.
## Hook Effect
Hook effect was evaluated by testing samples above the analytical measuring interval: from 2,000 to 24,000 μg/g. One lot of reagents was used; five samples were run in duplicate. The results showed no hook effect up to 18,000 μg/g.
## 3. Analytical Specificity/Interference:
The interference testing of the ALPCO Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay was evaluated following CLSI guideline EP07-Ed3. The study was performed using three samples: one high positive stool sample (477–488 μg/g), one moderately high positive stool sample (261–287 μg/g), and one low positive stool sample (41–46 μg/g). Interfering substances were spiked into each stool sample at 10% of the total specimen volume; a series of endogenous and exogenous interfering substances of different concentrations were tested. The solvent used to create the interferent stock was spiked into each stool sample at 10% of the total specimen volume to generate a control sample. Samples were tested in duplicate. Percent recovery was calculated to evaluate the differences between blank and control samples. No interference (% recovery range within 90–110%) of the ALPCO Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay was found to the concentration level tested for the following substances:
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| Interference Substance | Spiking Concentration |
| --- | --- |
| Oral Pharmaceuticals | |
| Iron (II) sulfate | 0.11 mg/50 mg stool |
| Prednisone | 0.31 mg/50 mg stool |
| Azathioprine | 0.19 mg/50 mg stool |
| Mesalamine; 5-ASA | 5.21 mg/50 mg stool |
| Lansoprazol | 0.18 mg/50 mg stool |
| Vancomycin | 2.0 mg/50 mg stool |
| Sulfamethoxazole | 1.6 mg/50 mg stool |
| Trimethoprim | 0.35 mg/50 mg stool |
| Ciprofloxacin | 1.25 mg/50 mg stool |
| Nutritional Supplements | |
| Vitamin E (DL-α Tocopherol Acetate) | 0.3 mg/50 mg stool |
| Multi-Vitamins (A, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B8, B9, B12, C, D, and E) and minerals | 1.06 mg/50 mg stool |
| Vitamin B7 (biotin) | 1750 ng/50 mg stool |
| Microorganisms | |
| Escherichia coli | 1.5 x 10^{7} cfu/mL |
| Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica | 1.5 x 10^{7} cfu/mL |
| Klebsiella pneumoniae subsp. pneumonia | 1.5 x 10^{7} cfu/mL |
| Citrobacter freundii | 1.5 x 10^{7} cfu/mL |
| Shigella flexneri | 1.5 x 10^{7} cfu/mL |
| Yersinia enterocolitica subsp. enterocolitica | 1.5 x 10^{7} cfu/mL |
| Other | |
| Human anti-mouse antibody (HAMA) | 0.241 μg/50 mg stool |
| Hemoglobin | 7.5 mg/50 mg stool |
| Rheumatoid Factor (RF) | 500 IU/50 mg stool |
4. Assay Reportable Range:
The analytical measuring interval (AMI) of the ALPCO Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay is 11.0–1000.0 µg/g.
5. Traceability, Stability, Expected Values (Controls, Calibrators, or Methods):
Traceability:
No international reference materials or reference measurement procedures are currently available for calprotectin. The ALPCO Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay is traceable to an internal standard that was value assigned using the ALPCO Calprotectin Chemiluminescent ELISA (K191807) predicate device. Calprotectin calibrators are prepared by spiking human recombinant calprotectin in a buffered matrix with stabilizers and preservatives to the target calprotectin concentrations.
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# Stability:
a. Shelf-Life Stability
The real-time and accelerated reagent stability studies were performed using two native stool sample pools and two controls. For real-time stability, three reagent lots of the ALPCO Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay (reagents, calibrators, and controls) were stored at 2–8°C, and the samples were tested every 4 months. For accelerated stability, three lots of the reagents were stored at 25°C, and 37°C, and the samples were tested every 7 days up to 35 days. Percent (%) recovery was calculated for each sample at each testing timepoint compared to the value at Day 0 stored under the same condition. The results support that the ALPCO Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay is stable at 2–8°C for 24 months.
b. Reagent On-Board Stability
Reagent on-board stability was tested using one lot of the ALPCO Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay reagents on one instrument (AU680 chemistry analyzer) using one calibration event. Two native sample pools and two controls were tested every 7 days using this lot of reagents stored on-board. The percent (%) recovery was evaluated for each sample compared to its value at Day 0. The results support the ALPCO Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay is stable when stored on-board for 30 days.
c. Transport Stability
The Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay (reagents, calibrators, and controls) transport stability was performed using one lot of reagents, one lot of calibrators, one instrument, and one lot of controls. Two sample pools and two controls were tested in two replicates. The reagents, calibrators, and controls were shipped using standards shipping packaging with two ice packs via commercial shipping for 2 days during peak summer conditions, and upon arrival the assay was stored at 30°C for an additional 14 days. Percent (%) recovery was calculated to evaluate the difference between transported and not transported reagents. Reagent percent (%) recovery ranged 91.0%–103.4%; for the calibrators: 94.9%–104.8%; and for the controls: 98.3%–101.7%.
d. Sample Stability
Refer to K191807
6. Detection Limit:
Limit of Blank (LoB):
The LoB of the ALPCO Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay y was determined in accordance with CLSI EP17-A2. Four blank stool samples were extracted and tested in replicates of five on two reagent lots across 3 days. The LoB was estimated as the 95th percentile for the distribution of blank sample results using nonparametric method. The LoB was determined to be 2.2 µg/g.
Limit of Detection (LoD):
The LoD of the ALPCO Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay was determined in accordance with CLSI EP17-A2. Four stool samples containing a low level of calprotectin
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were extracted and tested in replicates of five with two reagent lots across 4 days. The reported LoD measurement is the maximum value of the individual LoDs obtained for each reagent lot. The LoD was determined to be 3.9 µg/g.
## Limit of Quantitation (LoQ)
The LoQ of the ALPCO Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay was determined in accordance with CLSI EP17-A2. Five stool samples containing a low level of calprotectin were tested in replicates of five on two reagent lots across 4 days. The LoQ estimate for each reagent lot was determined as the measurand concentration interpolated from the intersection of the precision profile curve with the total within-laboratory imprecision goal of 20 %CV. The maximum value obtained for each reagent lot was reported as the LoQ. The LoQ was determined to be 11.0 µg/g.
## 7. Assay Cut-Off:
The cut-offs of the ALPCO Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay are presented in the following table:
| Calprotectin Concentration | Interpretation | Follow-Up |
| --- | --- | --- |
| < 50 µg/g | Normal | None |
| 50–100 µg/g | Equivocal | Retest in 4–6 weeks |
| > 100 µg/g | Elevated | Repeat as clinically indicated |
## B Comparison Studies:
### 1. Method Comparison with Predicate Device:
A method comparison study was performed by testing 306 stool sample extracts in singlicate using the ALPCO Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay and the predicate device. Of the 306 samples, 168 tested within the analytical measuring intervals of both assays and further evaluated by qualitative agreement and regression analysis. Among the 168 samples, 12 samples were native samples spiked with purified native human calprotectin to supplement high values. The comparison results were summarized in the following tables:
| ALPCO Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay | Predicate Device | | | Total |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| | Elevated (>100 µg/g) | Equivocal (50–100 µg/g) | Normal (<50 µg/g) | |
| Elevated (>100 µg/g) | 80 | 6 | 3 | 89 |
| Equivocal (50–100 µg/g) | 6 | 18 | 7 | 31 |
| Normal (<50 µg/g) | 0 | 8 | 40 | 48 |
| Total | 86 | 32 | 50 | 168 |
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Equivocal results considered as elevated:
| Negative Percent Agreement (NPA) | 80.00% (95%CI: 68.28–89.97%) |
| --- | --- |
| Positive Percent Agreement (PPA) | 93.22% (95% CI: 87.08–97.03%) |
| Total Percent Agreement (TPA) | 89.29% (95%CI: 83.60–93.53%) |
Equivocal results considered as normal:
| Negative Percent Agreement (NPA) | 89.02% (95% CI: 80.18–94.86%) |
| --- | --- |
| Positive Percent Agreement (PPA) | 93.02% (95% CI: 84.43–97.40%) |
| Total Percent Agreement (TPA) | 91.07% (95% CI: 85.70–94.92%) |
The 168 samples within the analytical measuring intervals of both assays were evaluated by Passing-Bablok regression. The results are summarized in the table below:
| N | Range (μg/g) | Slope (95%CI) | Intercept (95%CI) | R² |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 168 | 11.0–975.3 | 0.98 (0.95–1.02) | -0.52 (-4.74–3.23) | 0.99 |
## 2. Sample Extraction Method Comparison:
Extraction method comparison was performed to demonstrate equivalency of the ALPCO Easy Stool Extraction Device and manual weighing method. A total of 60 native stool samples were extracted using the ALPCO Easy Stool Extraction Device and manual weighing method, respectively. The paired samples were run using one lot of the ALPCO Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay reagent, calibrators, and controls. Test results of 53 paired samples across the analytical measuring interval were evaluated by Passing-Bablok regression analysis. The results are summarized in the following table:
| N | Range (μg/g) | Slope (95%CI) | Intercept (95%CI) | R² |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 53 | 11.2–780.8 | 1.01 (0.99–1.03) | 0.71 (-0.41–2.30) | 0.99 |
## C Clinical Studies:
### a. Clinical Sensitivity and specificity
The clinical performance of the Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay was evaluated. A total of 349 stool specimens from the intended use population were prospectively collected at 15 sites. All enrolled patients were scheduled to undergo colonoscopy and were further screened to determine eligibility based upon the below inclusion/exclusion criteria:
- Inclusion criteria:
≥ 22 years of age; possible inflammatory bowel disease or irritable bowel syndrome with symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, altered appetite, weight loss, or anemia; able to provide a stool sample within 24–48 hours prior to colonoscopy preparation or 3–14 days following colonoscopy; able to understand the study and the tasks required and sign the Informed Consent Form.
K220763 - Page 12 of 15
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- Exclusion criteria:
Unable or unwilling to provide a stool specimen; known intestinal cancer; receiving chemotherapy or systemic immunosuppressive drugs; previously diagnosed IBD managed with immunomodulators, 5-ASA or biologic therapies or who have undergone a surgical resection or diversion procedure; known intestinal infection; known upper GI disease (i.e., esophagitis or gastritis); have taken proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2-receptor antagonists for the previous 2 weeks; have taken NSAIDS (including aspirin) on seven or more days during the 2 weeks before providing the sample.
Clinical diagnoses were established by the clinical investigator/gastroenterologist:
- IBD diagnosis was based on endoscopy results and/or histology of biopsies taken during the endoscopy.
- IBS diagnosis was based on the Rome IV criteria and confirmed by negative endoscopy including the colon and terminal ileum.
- Subjects were diagnosed with “Other GI conditions” when they did not meet the diagnostic criteria for IBD or IBS.
The clinical diagnosis of the samples in the study were summarized in the following table:
| Clinical Diagnosis | Number of Subjects |
| --- | --- |
| Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) | 63 |
| Ulcerative Colitis (UC) | 29 |
| Crohn’s Disease (CD) | 24 |
| Indeterminant/Undefined | 10 |
| Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) | 105 |
| Other GI conditions | 181 |
| Total | 349 |
The stool samples were de-identified and were tested using the ALPCO Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay at ALPCO site and at two external sites. The results are summarized in the following table:
| ALPCO Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay | Clinical Diagnosis | | | Total |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| | IBD | IBS | Other GI | |
| Elevated (>100 μg/g) | 48 | 4 | 3 | 55 |
| Equivocal (50–100 μg/g) | 9 | 6 | 6 | 21 |
| Normal (<50 μg/g) | 6 | 95 | 172 | 273 |
| Total | 63 | 105 | 181 | 349 |
**IBD vs. non-IBD**
The performance of the Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay as an aid in the diagnosis of IBD was evaluated by calculate the estimates of the clinical sensitivity, clinical specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV). The results are summarized in the following tables:
K220763 - Page 13 of 15
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Equivocal results as Elevated
| ALPCO Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay | Clinical Diagnosis | | Total |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| | IBD | Non-IBD | |
| Elevated (≥50 μg/g) | 57 | 19 | 76 |
| Normal (<50 μg/g) | 6 | 267 | 273 |
| Total | 63 | 286 | 349 |
| Sensitivity: 90.5% (95% CI: 80.7–95.6%)
Specificity: 93.4% (95% CI: 89.9–95.7%)
PPV: 75.0% (95% CI: 65.8–82.4%)
NPV: 97.8% (95% CI: 95.4–99.0%) | | | |
Equivocal results as Normal:
| ALPCO Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay | Clinical Diagnosis | | Total |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| | IBD | Non-IBD | |
| Elevated (>100 μg/g) | 48 | 7 | 55 |
| Normal (≤100 μg/g) | 15 | 279 | 294 |
| Total | 63 | 286 | 349 |
| Sensitivity: 76.2% (95% CI: 64.4–85.0%)
Specificity: 97.6% (95%CI: 94.8–98.9%)
PPV: 87.3% (95% CI: 76.5–93.5%)
NPV: 94.9% (95% CI: 91.8–96.9%) | | | |
# IBD vs. IBS
The performance of the Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay as an aid to differentiate the IBD and IBS was evaluated by calculate the estimates of the clinical sensitivity, clinical specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV). The results are summarized in the following tables:
Equivocal results as Elevated:
| ALPCO Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay | Clinical Diagnosis | | Total |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| | IBD | IBS | |
| Elevated (≥50 μg/g) | 57 | 10 | 67 |
| Normal (<50 μg/g) | 6 | 95 | 101 |
| Total | 63 | 105 | 168 |
| Sensitivity: 90.5% (95% CI: 80.7–95.6%)
Specificity: 90.5% (95% CI: 83.4–94.7%)
PPV: 85.1% (95% CI: 75.9–91.2%)
NPV: 94.1% (95% CI: 88.1–97.1%) | | | |
Equivocal results as Normal:
| ALPCO Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay | Clinical Diagnosis | | Total |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| | IBD | IBS | |
| Elevated (>100 μg/g) | 48 | 4 | 52 |
| Normal (≤100 μg/g) | 15 | 101 | 116 |
| Total | 63 | 105 | 168 |
K220763 - Page 14 of 15
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Sensitivity: 76.2% (95% CI: 64.4–85.0%)
Specificity: 96.2% (95% CI: 90.6–98.5%)
PPV: 92.3% (95% CI: 82.0–96.9%)
NPV: 87.1% (95% CI: 81.2–91.3%)
2. Other Clinical Supportive Data (When 1 Is Not Applicable):
Not applicable
D Clinical Cut-Off:
Same as assay cut-off
E Expected Values/Reference Range:
A study was performed using 120 stool samples to establish the reference range for the ALPCO Calprotectin Immunoturbidimetric Assay following CLSI EP28-A3c. The stool samples were obtained from 120 asymptomatic individuals with no abdominal complaints and no history of IBS, IBD or other chronic intestinal disorders. The cohort contained 65 females and 55 males, 22 to 82 years old with the mean age of 43.8 years.
Among 120 samples, the value of stool calprotectin level for 104 samples were below 11 µg/g, the lower end of the AMI. Two samples were tested with elevated value of stool calprotectin, i.e., 111.2 and 130.3 µg/g, and one with equivocal, value 68.5 µg/g. The results are summarized in the following table:
| | Calprotectin Concentration (μg/g) |
| --- | --- |
| Range | <3.9–130.3 |
| Mean | 8.6 |
| Median | 3.9 |
| Lower Limit (90% CI) | 3.9 (3.9–3.9) |
| Upper Limit (90% CI) | 67.5 (20.0–130.3) |
VIII Proposed Labeling:
The labeling supports the finding of substantial equivalence for this device.
IX Conclusion:
The submitted information in this premarket notification is complete and supports a substantial equivalence decision.
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Learn the FDA Browser
Two short videos show you everything — or skip straight to the written tutorial if you'd rather read. You can reopen this any time from the Tutorial button in the top bar.
Part 1 — Search, results, and everyday workflows 16 min
Part 2 — Embeddings: the galaxy map 3 min
1. Search: exact and fuzzy
Type a phrase like "coronary artery calcification" into the search box. You get two kinds of results. Exact results match the literal phrase — prefix searches work ("coronary artery calcificati") but suffix searches do not. Fuzzy results match on the meaning and intent of your phrase rather than the exact words, and are sorted by relevance score. Hover over the Exact or Fuzzy badge on any row to see exactly why it matched.
Use the checkboxes above the results to narrow: SaMD keeps only software-only devices, AI / ML keeps only devices with AI.
Exact vs. fuzzy search: what's the difference?
Exact matches on the literal phrase (prefix search works, suffix does not). Fuzzy matches on the meaning and intent of the phrase rather than the exact words. Hover over the badge on any row to see why it matched.
You search "coronary artery calcification" and want only software devices with AI. What two filters do you apply?
Narrow by SaMD (software-only devices), then narrow by AI/ML (devices with AI).
2. The results table
Scroll right in the results table. The intended use is extracted for you — no need to open the PDF. The device story gives a high-level snapshot of what the device does and how it's used. The AI Performance sub-table shows each output name, acceptance criteria, observed values, and development/test dataset descriptions — the same format Innolitics uses for regulatory strategy outputs, and the fastest high-level fingerprint of an AI device. It is AI-generated but has been very reliable in practice.
Where do you find a device's intended use without opening the PDF?
Scroll right in the search results table. The intended use column is extracted for you; no need to dig into the 510(k) summary PDF.
What does the AI Performance sub-table show, and why is it useful?
Output name, acceptance criteria, observed values, development dataset description, and test dataset description. It's the same format we use for regulatory strategy output and Fast 510(k) input, and the fastest high-level fingerprint of an AI device. AI-generated but reliable in practice.
3. Judging fuzzy relevance
Fuzzy results trail off in relevance as you scroll. Use three signals to decide how far down to go: the fuzzy badge explanations, the intended use column, and whether your target output (e.g., Cobb angle) still appears in the AI Performance sub-table. Once it stops appearing, you're past the relevant zone. A top hit with a low score (~0.4) and a stretched explanation is a hint the closest predicates are far away — the project may be headed for De Novo. Note the fuzzy search is a pattern match: it doesn't handle negation ("not") well, and hardware devices can appear — filter by SaMD/AI ML to cut them.
How do you judge how far down fuzzy search results to go?
Use the relevancy signals: the fuzzy badge explanations, the intended use column, and whether the target output (e.g., Cobb angle) still appears in the AI Performance sub-table. Once it stops appearing, results are trailing off in relevancy.
4. Device detail page: chat and citations
Click a device name to open its detail page: device facts on the left, a chat window on the right. Ask something like "Describe the training data". The answer carries little citation bubbles — click one to jump to the highlighted passage in the source PDF, so you can verify every AI answer against the document. There's also a Download PDF button for sharing.
How do you verify an AI chat answer on the device detail page?
Click the citation bubbles to jump to the relevant highlight in the source document.
Reading rule for every project: how many summaries do you read in full?
At least the three most relevant 510(k) or De Novo summaries, in full. After that, use targeted chat questions to confirm your memory quickly. The tool supports this professional habit — it doesn't replace it.
5. Side-by-side comparison
Select multiple rows in the results table (aim for under ~10), then open the PDF Viewer tab. Ask one question — it goes to all selected devices in parallel, each with citations. This is the fastest way to compare and contrast devices: training data, PCCP scope, how they handled adding new scanners, and so on.
What does the side-by-side PDF viewer mode do?
Select multiple devices, open the PDF viewer tab, and ask one question (e.g., "Describe the training data"). It queries all selected devices simultaneously with citations, so you can compare and contrast quickly.
6. Collections
With rows selected, go to the Collections tab and create a labeled collection (e.g., "Cobb Angle Project"). Reload that selection any time — before a client call, pull up the collection and ask questions across all of its devices at once.
How do you save a set of selected devices for later use?
Select the rows, go to the Collections tab, and create a labeled collection (e.g., "Cobb Angle Project"). You can reload the selection anytime and carry it into the PDF viewer and other tabs that support selections.
7. Product codes and the regulations tree
Click a product code in the results to jump to it in the regulations tree — identification text, sibling product codes, and devices you can open in a PDF viewer on the right. Click a regulation number to see its identification, special controls, and related product codes. You can also search by product code or regulation number at the top of the tree. Always read the special controls if any exist for your device — it broadens your search and sharpens pre-kickoff research.
What can you do from the regulations tree view?
Browse product codes and regulation numbers, read the identification text and special controls, browse sibling product codes, open device PDFs on the right, and search by product code or regulation number at the top of the tree.
8. Chart view
Click Show Chart and segment by regulation number (or product code) to see which regulations dominate your result set. Clicking a regulation takes you into the regulations tree. Great for spotting that most matches are, say, hardware laparoscopic devices — a cue to go back and filter.
How do you see which regulations dominate a search result set?
Click "Show Chart" and segment by Regulation Number. Clicking a regulation takes you to the regulations tree.
9. The predicate graph
Open the Predicates tab for a family-tree view of predicate relationships. Click a node to trace its parents and children; selections from search carry over pre-selected. Commonly predicated devices are worth reading — a lot of people predicated them for a reason. The visual lineage is also handy on client calls, e.g. to show how a predicate family evolved and justify why your predicate still holds.
In the predicate graph, why are commonly predicated devices worth reading?
A lot of people predicated them for a reason. Clicking a node traces parents and children, and selections from search carry over pre-selected.
10. Embeddings: the galaxy map
The Embeddings tab plots every matching document in a 2-D "galaxy map" where semantically similar devices cluster together. Hover or click clusters to explore, and let AI label the clusters for you. Embeddings beat product codes for grouping: two devices can carry different product codes (LLZ vs. QIH) yet do the same thing — the embedding captures the meaning of the intended use and device story. This is also exactly how retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) works under the hood, and it makes a great visual on client calls.
Try it yourself
Head to the search page and work through a few of these AI/ML fuzzy searches to build intuition: perivascular fat on CT · aortic valve calcification opportunistic screening on noncontrast CT · breast cancer prediction on digital pathology slides · autism detection · gestational age prediction · a hearing aid that can also detect a pulse · foundation model based analysis of ECG · large language models · penetration test. Watch how the relevance scores, intended use, and AI Performance tables tell you when results stop being meaningful.