|
Approximately 10 g freshly collected faeces.
Plain bottle for faeces |
|
| Sampling Procedure for Faecal Occult Blood Test Video | In-patients: resolution ( Low / High ) Out-patients: resolution (Low / High) |
| Authorisation code required | No |
| 24 Hr available service | No |
|
Precaution |
Because of the non-homogeneity of the stool, it is recommended that the test be performed on two consecutive evacuations.
Dietary restrictions prior to specimen collection is NOT required.
For female patients, avoid collection of specimen during menstrual cycle.
If the stool specimen cannot reach the laboratory within 24 Hr, please frozen the specimen until delivery. |
| Method |
Immunoassay |
| Reference interval | Normal: negative |
| Clinical indication | Screening test for colorectal cancer. (This test is not appropriate for the detection of upper gastrointestinal tract bleeding.) |
| Result interpretation |
This test is intended only for detecting
human haemoglobin (Hb) in faeces. Results cannot be considered conclusive
evidence of the presence or absence of GI pathologies. Positive results
should be followed up with appropriate diagnostic procedures. False negative
results can be obtained when GI disorders are present (e.g., some polyps
and colorectal cancers may bleed intermittently), and when the specimen
was stored improperly. This test is specific for lower GI tract bleeding. It does not react with animal Hb, peroxidase compounds, drugs, vitamins, or substances producing false results, thereby eliminating the need for dietary or drug restrictions prior to specimen collection. |
| Measurement of uncertainty | See table. |
| Frequency of measurement | Daily |