Test Information:
The detection of fecal occult blood in stool is important for the diagnosis of diseases that result in gastrointestinal bleeding and to screen for colorectal cancers and large adenomas that bleed. Screening for colorectal cancer likely increases cancer detection at early stage, thereby reducing mortality.
Specimen Container:
Sterile / Plain Stool Container
Specimen Type:
Stool
Required Volume:
Pea Size: 50 grams
Watery: 5 to 10 mL
Patient Preparation:
- Three days meat free diet, avoid fruits and vegetables with peroxidase-like substances.
- Restrict intake of vitamin C.
- Patient with bleeding from other conditions such as hemorrhoids, constipation or menstrual bleeding should not be tested while such conditions are present.
- DO NOT COLLECT SPECIMEN IF PATIENT IS DOING RECTAL PREPARATION.
Notes:
To obtain optimal results, it is recommended that freshly collected specimen must be submitted in the laboratory as soon as possible or within 1 hour after specimen collection.
•However, if delay in transportation occurs, it is vital to follow the stipulated storage and stability. Specimen received beyond the stipulated storage and stability is considered “sub-optimal” in nature.
•Specimen should not be contaminated with urine, water or other contaminants.
Storage & Stability
(Before Processing)
- Storage: 20 to 22°C
Stability: 3 days - Storage: 2 to 8°C
Stability: 7 days
Transport Temperature:
Ref (2˚C – 8˚C)
Test Category:
Routine
Test Schedule:
Daily
Results Availability:
Within 4 hours