Stool guaiac test
Stool Guaiac Test
The Stool Guaiac Test (pronunciation: stool gwy-ak test), also known as the Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT), is a non-invasive diagnostic procedure used to detect hidden (occult) blood in the stool.
Etymology
The term "guaiac" originates from the Guaiacum tree, from which the guaiac resin is derived. This resin is used as a reagent in the test. The term "occult" in this context means "hidden", referring to blood in the stool that is not visible to the naked eye.
Procedure
The Stool Guaiac Test involves the collection of stool samples using a special card, known as a guaiac fecal occult blood test (gFOBT) card. The card is then treated with a solution containing guaiac. If the guaiac reacts with any blood present in the stool, the card changes color, indicating a positive result.
Interpretation
A positive Stool Guaiac Test indicates the presence of hidden blood in the stool, which could be a sign of various conditions such as gastrointestinal bleeding, colorectal cancer, or peptic ulcer. However, a positive result does not necessarily mean that the patient has cancer or a serious condition. Further diagnostic tests are required to determine the exact cause of the bleeding.
Related Terms
- Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT): A newer type of stool test that also detects hidden blood in the stool, but uses antibodies instead of guaiac.
- Colonoscopy: A more invasive diagnostic procedure that allows doctors to examine the entire colon and rectum for abnormalities such as polyps or cancer.
- Gastrointestinal Tract: The part of the digestive system where most digestion and absorption of nutrients occur. It includes the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Stool guaiac test
- Wikipedia's article - Stool guaiac test
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