Occult blood test is a type of medical examination that helps in detecting hidden blood in feces, which is not visible to the naked eye. The test is also known as fecal occult blood test (FOBT) or stool guaiac test. The main purpose of the test is to identify any potential signs of gastrointestinal bleeding, which may be indicative of various health conditions such as ulcers, polyps, or colorectal cancer.

During the test, a small sample of feces is collected and sent to the laboratory for analysis. The lab technicians use a special chemical called guaiac to detect the presence of blood in the sample. If the test result is positive, it means that there is blood in the stool sample and further investigation may be required to determine the cause of the bleeding.

The occult blood test is a routine screening test recommended by medical professionals, especially for individuals who are at a higher risk of developing gastrointestinal conditions. These include people who are over 50 years old, have a family history of gastrointestinal issues, or have previously been diagnosed with colorectal cancer.

The normal range for the test result is negative, which means that there is no blood detected in the stool sample. A positive result does not necessarily mean that the person has colorectal cancer, but it does indicate that further testing is required to determine the cause of the bleeding.

The diagnosis of the underlying health condition will depend on various factors such as the severity of the bleeding, the age and medical history of the individual, and the results of other diagnostic tests. Treatment options may range from medication to surgery, depending on the severity and cause of the bleeding.

It is important to note that certain medications and dietary habits can also affect the test results. For example, taking iron supplements or eating red meat can lead to a false positive result. Therefore, it is important to inform the healthcare provider about any medication or dietary changes before undergoing the test.

Overall, the occult blood test is a simple and non-invasive way to detect potential signs of gastrointestinal bleeding. It is an essential screening test for individuals who are at a higher risk of developing gastrointestinal conditions and can help in early diagnosis and treatment of such conditions.

Category
Biochemistry

Prerequisite
You don't need any special preparations for this test

Normal Range
negative, positive, or inconclusive

Type of sample to be collected
Stool Sample