Fecal occult blood test, FOBT
Please note that independent interpretation of the results is not allowed; the information provided below is for informational purposes only.
The fecal occult blood test detects small amounts of blood in the stool that are not visible to the naked eye. It is used for the early diagnosis of gastrointestinal tract diseases, including inflammatory conditions, ulcers, polyps, and colorectal cancer. This test helps identify bleeding at very early stages, often before other symptoms appear.
Test Types
- Guaiac-based FOBT – based on a chemical reaction of hemoglobin with guaiac reagent. May give false-positive results if red meat, beets, or certain medications are consumed. Used as a basic screening method.
- Immunochemical FOBT (iFOBT / FIT) – based on specific detection of human hemoglobin using antibodies. More sensitive and specific, not affected by diet. Recommended for regular colorectal cancer screening.
Indications
- Suspected gastrointestinal bleeding
- Colorectal cancer screening in adults
- Chronic gastritis, stomach or duodenal ulcers
- Intestinal polyps or inflammatory bowel disease
- Follow-up after treatment of gastrointestinal diseases
Procedure
- The patient receives a special container for stool collection.
- The sample is collected over one or several days, depending on the method.
- The laboratory performs the test and reports the result: positive (blood detected) or negative (no blood detected).
Sources:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/24227-fecal-occult-blood-test-fobt
https://www.webmd.com/colorectal-cancer/fecal-occult-blood-test
https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/digestive-diseases-stool-testing-blood-fecal-occult-blood-test
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/colon-polyps/symptoms-causes/syc-20352875
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537138/
https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/fecal-occult-blood-test-fobt/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/fecal-occult-blood-test/about/pac-20394112
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/fecal-occult-blood-test/multimedia/fecal-occult-blood-test-kit/img-20007541
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/fecal-occult-blood-test/doctors-departments/pdc-20394113
https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/patient-education/fecal-occult-blood-test
IMPORTANT!
It is crucial to remember that the information provided here is not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. If you experience any pain or exacerbation of symptoms, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnostic testing. Only a qualified specialist can provide an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. For the most accurate and consistent evaluation of test results, it is recommended to have the tests performed at the same laboratory. This is because different laboratories may use varying methods and units of measurement for similar tests.
Pregătirea:
- Avoid foods that may cause false-positive results for 3–5 days before the test: red meat, beets, liver, radishes.
- Do not take certain medications without consulting a doctor (anticoagulants, aspirin, iron supplements).
- Avoid intense physical activity and hemorrhoid treatment immediately before the test.
- Collect stool in a clean, dry container, avoiding contact with urine or water.