Stool for Occult Blood

Specimen Required

STOOL

Fasting Required

Purpose of the Test

Stool occult blood test is performed to detect the presence of hidden or occult blood in the stool. The test is used to screen for conditions that can cause gastrointestinal bleeding, such as colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, hemorrhoids, and polyps.

When this test is required

The test is typically requested by a healthcare provider as part of a routine physical exam for individuals over the age of 50, or for those who have a family history of colorectal cancer. It may also be ordered when a patient presents with symptoms such as unexplained abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, or rectal bleeding.

What the Test Detects

A stool occult blood test is a laboratory test used to detect the presence of small amounts of hidden or occult blood in the stool.

Preparation for the Test

No special preparation is usually required for this test. However, patients may be advised to avoid certain medications and foods that can affect the results of the test. The healthcare provider will provide specific instructions regarding any dietary restrictions or medication changes that are needed.

Sample Requirements

To perform the test, a small sample of stool is collected by the patient and sent to the laboratory for analysis. The patient may be provided with a stool collection kit by the healthcare provider and instructed on how to properly collect and handle the sample.

Additional Notes

A negative result on a stool occult blood test indicates the absence of blood in the stool, which suggests that the patient is not currently experiencing gastrointestinal bleeding. However, it is important to note that a negative result does not completely rule out the possibility of a gastrointestinal disorder.

Selected Tests