| Injury | Disease | Nutrition | Poison |
| Symptoms | Surgery | Test | Special Topic |
| 1 | 2 | 5 | A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X |
Flushable reagent stool blood test |
| Definition: |
| This is a test performed at home with disposable pads that detects the presence of hidden (occult) blood in the stool. The pads are available at drugstores without a prescription. Brand names include EZ-Detect™ and ColoCARE. |
| Alternative Names: |
| Stool occult blood test - flushable home test; Fecal occult blood test - flushable home test
|
| How the test is performed: |
There is no direct handling of stool with this test. You simply note any changes on a card and then mail the results card to your physician. Urinate if you need to, then flush the toilet before you defecate. After the bowel movement, place the chemically treated tissue pad in the toilet. Watch for a change of color on the test area of the pad (results usually appear within two minutes). Repeat for two more consecutive bowel movements. Note the results on the card provided. Then flush the pad away. The different tests have different methods to check for water quality. Check the package for instructions. |
| How to prepare for the test: |
Some drugs may interfere with this test. Check with your health care provider regarding medication changes that may be necessary. Never discontinue or decrease any medication without consulting your health care provider. Check package instructions for dietary restrictions. |
| How the test will feel: |
| This test involves only normal bowel functions, and there is no discomfort. |
| Why the test is performed: |
| This test is mainly performed for colorectal cancer screening. It may also be recommended in the evaluation of anemia. |
| Normal Values: |
| A negative result is normal. |
| What abnormal results mean: |
Abnormal results of the flushable test may indicate the same issues as the guaiac smear test:
Additional non-GI related causes of positive guaiac test may include:
Abnormal test results require follow-up with your physician. |
| What the risks are: |
| There can be false-positive or false-negative results. These are similar as for the traditional guaiac smear tests.
|
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
