Fecal Occult Blood Test: An Overview
What is a Fecal Occult Blood Test?
A fecal occult blood test (FOBT) is a screening test that looks for hidden blood in stool. It is commonly used to detect colorectal cancer and other gastrointestinal bleeding disorders.
How does a FOBT work?
A FOBT uses a chemical to detect the presence of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. When blood is present in stool, the chemical changes color. The intensity of the color change indicates the amount of blood present.
FOBTs are available as both home tests and laboratory tests. Home tests are typically less sensitive than laboratory tests, but they are more convenient and less expensive. Laboratory tests are more sensitive, but they require a doctor's prescription and must be processed in a laboratory.
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