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Fecal occult blood test (FOBT)   

Overview | Risks | Results

Alternative names:

Stool occult blood test

Definition:

A non-invasive test that detects the presence of hidden (occult) blood in the stool. Such blood may arise from anywhere along the digestive tract. Hidden blood in stool is often the first, and in many cases the only, warning sign a person has of colorectal diseases including colon cancer.

There are two types of FOBTs: 1) the traditional guaiac smear test (Hemoccult, Seracult, Coloscreen), and 2) the newer, flushable reagent pads (EZ Detect™, ColoCARE). They are both useful in detecting hidden blood in the stool, and are mainly used for colorectal cancer screening. The tests differ in the way they are performed. The flushable reagent pads are available OTC at many drugstores. In contrast, the traditional guaiac smear test is completed and interpreted by a medical professional and these tests are usually available from a laboratory or doctor's office. Many consumers prefer the flushable reagent pads because there is no stool handling and no laboratory processing. However, doctors still primarily favor the guaiac tests.

How the Test is Performed

See description under specific type of FOBT.

How to Prepare for the Test

See description under specific type of FOBT.

How the Test will Feel

See description under specific type of FOBT.

Why the Test is Performed

This test is mainly performed for colorectal cancer screening. It may also be performed in the evaluation of anemia.

Advantages:

• Non-invasive
• Low cost

Disadvantages:

• Detects blood in stool, but not its cause.
• False-positives are common with some testing methods and may cause unwarranted anxiety about cancer and lead to unnecessary further tests.
• False-negative results are common and may miss disease in its early stages.

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