Feacal Occult Blood Test (FOBT)
Synonyms
FIT”,” iFOBT, Fecal immunochemical test (FIT), FOB, Occult Blood, FOBT
Purpose of The Feacal Occult Blood Test
The Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) detects human hemoglobin in fecal material. This test is critical for detecting concealed (occult) blood in the stool, which can be an early indicator of gastrointestinal disorders.
The FOBT is mainly used to determine probable causes of gastrointestinal bleeding. Occult blood in the stool could indicate dangerous illnesses such as colon cancer, polyps in the colon or rectum, or other gastrointestinal issues. Early detection with the FOBT can result in prompt interventions and better patient outcomes.
The FOBT is typically used in conjunction with the stool for O/C test to examine the overall health of the gastrointestinal tract. The FOBT detects blood that could indicate cancer or lesions, but the O/C test finds parasites that could also cause gastrointestinal problems. Combined, these tests thoroughly assess all possible reasons for gastrointestinal distress.
In addition, Chronic Helicobacter pylori infections can cause gastritis and ulcers, resulting in gastrointestinal bleeding. The FOBT can reveal occult blood caused by these circumstances, necessitating further study with the H. pylori antigen test to evaluate whether an infection exists. This combination helps determine whether an H. pylori infection or another gastrointestinal condition causes the bleeding.
Patient Preparation
The patient is not subjected to any restrictions.
Samples
One polymer OC-auto Sampling bottle with stool. Polymedco OC-auto Sampling bottle. Fecal samples should not come into contact with any toilet water and should be maintained at room temperature.
Reference Range
Negative/Normal
Results Turnaround
3 days after receipt of samples.
Diseases / Diagnostic Indicators of Feacal Occult Blood Test (FOBT)
Diseases and Diagnostic Indicators for Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT)
The Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) is used to detect concealed blood in stool specimens, which can suggest a variety of gastrointestinal disorders. The presence of human hemoglobin in feces generally indicates gastrointestinal bleeding.
The FOBT is vital for screening high-risk populations for colorectal cancer, allowing for early identification and improved treatment outcomes.
Occult blood may signify polyps in the colon or rectum. Early detection of these growths is critical since they might be benign or cancerous.
The FOBT can also detect other conditions, such as ulcers, diverticulitis, or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which might result in unreported bleeding.
For more thorough information about the implications of FOBT in diagnosing gastrointestinal disorders, consult this resource at NICB.