Stool for Occult Blood Test: A laboratory test that detects hidden (occult) blood in the stool, which may indicate gastrointestinal bleeding from various sources, including ulcers, polyps, or cancers.
Purpose: This test is commonly used as a screening tool for colorectal cancer, particularly in individuals over the age of 50 or those with a family history of gastrointestinal diseases. It can also help diagnose other conditions causing gastrointestinal bleeding.
Sample Collection: Patients are instructed to collect stool samples over several days to increase the likelihood of detecting occult blood. Typically, three samples are collected on different days to improve diagnostic accuracy.
Testing Method: The collected stool samples are tested using a chemical reaction (such as the guaiac test) or immunochemical methods that can identify the presence of hemoglobin in the stool.
Interpretation: A positive result indicates the presence of occult blood, which necessitates further investigation, such as colonoscopy or imaging studies, to determine the source of bleeding. A negative result suggests no significant bleeding is present.
Clinical Relevance: The Stool for Occult Blood test is a crucial component of colorectal cancer screening programs, allowing for the early detection of potential malignancies and other gastrointestinal disorders.
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