Name of the Procedure:

Blood, occult, by peroxidase activity (eg, guaiac), qualitative; feces, consecutive collected specimens with single determination, for colorectal neoplasm screening (ie, patient was provided 3 cards or single triple card for consecutive collection).

Summary

This test detects hidden (occult) blood in stool samples. It involves collecting stool samples on cards over multiple days to screen for colorectal cancers and other potential digestive system issues.

Purpose

The primary aim of this procedure is to screen for colorectal cancer by detecting hidden blood in stool, which can be an early sign of cancer or other gastrointestinal disorders. Early detection increases the chance of successful treatment.

Indications

• Individuals over the age of 50, as part of routine screening.
• Patients with a family history of colorectal cancer.
• Individuals experiencing symptoms like unexplained weight loss, changes in bowel habits, or rectal bleeding.

Preparation

• Patients are generally provided with dietary guidelines to avoid certain foods that can affect the test results, such as red meat, certain vegetables, and vitamin C supplements.
• Patients should avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for a specified period before collecting samples, as these can also interfere with results.
• No fasting is required for this test.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is given three separate cards or a single triple card for stool collection across three consecutive days.
2. The patient uses a provided applicator to collect small samples of stool and smear them onto designated areas on the card.
3. Once all samples are collected, the cards are returned to the healthcare provider or lab.
4. The cards are then tested using guaiac, a substance that reacts with iron in blood, to detect the presence of occult blood.

Duration

The collection process spans three days, with each sample collection taking a few minutes. The overall procedure, including testing, can be completed within a week.

Setting

The stool sample collection is done at the patient’s home. The analysis is conducted in a lab setting.

Personnel

• The patient collects the samples themselves.
• Laboratory technicians analyze the samples.
• The healthcare provider or a gastroenterologist discusses results and further steps.

Risks and Complications

• There are minimal risks associated with this non-invasive test.
• False positives or false negatives can occur, necessitating additional testing.

Benefits

• Early detection of colorectal cancer and other gastrointestinal issues.
• Non-invasive and easy to perform.
• Can be done in the privacy of the patient's home.

Recovery

• No recovery time is needed as the stool collection is non-invasive.
• Patients can resume normal activities immediately.

Alternatives

• Colonoscopy: More comprehensive but invasive and requires sedation.
• Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT): Another stool test with a different detection method.
• Computed Tomographic Colonography: A non-invasive imaging test.
• Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: Allows direct visualization of the rectum and lower colon.

Patient Experience

• Patients might find the stool collection process slightly uncomfortable but generally manageable.
• There might be minor inconvenience in adhering to dietary and medication restrictions.
• No pain is involved, and normal activities can be continued without interruption.