The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.
Also known as: Fecal Globin by Immunochemistry InSure, FOBT, InSure®, Occult Blood, Stool Blood, Stool Hemoglobin
The Compare - Colon Cancer Screening Test (LGC) test contains 1 test with 1 biomarker.
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The Colon Cancer Screening (FIT) test is a laboratory test used to detect the presence of microscopic traces of blood in stool samples. This test is a non-invasive screening method for assessing gastrointestinal bleeding and is primarily employed for colorectal cancer screening and the early detection of other gastrointestinal disorders.
Also Known As: Fecal Immunochemical Test, Fecal Occult Blood Test, Stool Occult Blood Test, FIT, FOBT
Collection Method: Fecal specimen collected from toilet water and brushed onto InSure® FOBT test card
Specimen Type: Fecal Specimen
Test Preparation: No preparation required
Timing of the Test: The FIT is typically ordered as part of routine colorectal cancer screening. It is recommended for individuals of a certain age or with specific risk factors. FIT can be done at any time and does not require fasting or special dietary preparation.
Reasons for Ordering the Test:
Colorectal Cancer Screening: The primary reason for ordering a FIT is to screen for colorectal cancer, particularly in individuals who are at average risk for the disease. Colorectal cancer often starts with small bleeding lesions in the colon or rectum, and the FIT can detect traces of blood in stool samples, which may be indicative of early-stage cancer.
Polyp and Adenoma Detection: FIT can also help detect precancerous polyps and adenomas in the colon. Identifying and removing these growths can prevent them from progressing to cancer.
Evaluation of Gastrointestinal Bleeding: In cases where a patient presents with unexplained gastrointestinal bleeding or symptoms such as chronic diarrhea, abdominal pain, or anemia, a FIT may be ordered to investigate potential causes.
Monitoring for Gastrointestinal Disorders: FIT can be used to monitor individuals with known gastrointestinal conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or diverticulosis, to check for signs of bleeding or disease activity.
The Fecal Immunochemical Test specifically checks for the presence of human hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells. It identifies microscopic amounts of blood in stool samples that may not be visible to the naked eye. The test distinguishes between human hemoglobin and hemoglobin from dietary sources, reducing the likelihood of false-positive results due to dietary factors like red meat consumption.
Healthcare providers use the results of the Fecal Immunochemical Test to:
Screen for Colorectal Cancer: A negative FIT result is generally reassuring, suggesting no significant bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract. In this case, routine colorectal cancer screening may be continued at recommended intervals.
Prompt Further Evaluation: If a FIT result is positive, indicating the presence of blood in the stool, it does not necessarily mean cancer is present. However, it does warrant further evaluation. Patients with positive FIT results may be referred for colonoscopy or other diagnostic tests to investigate the source of bleeding, which may include polyps, adenomas, or other gastrointestinal conditions.
Assess Disease Activity: In individuals with known gastrointestinal conditions, a positive FIT result may suggest disease activity, and healthcare providers can use this information to guide treatment decisions and management.
Determine Follow-Up: Depending on the findings of further evaluation, healthcare providers can determine appropriate follow-up, whether it involves surveillance, treatment, or additional testing.
In summary, the Colon Cancer Screening test (FIT) is a non-invasive screening tool used for the early detection of colorectal cancer and other gastrointestinal disorders. Healthcare providers use FIT results to guide further diagnostic and treatment decisions, helping to ensure timely intervention when needed and potentially saving lives through early cancer detection and prevention.
We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.