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Fecal Occult Blood Test
What to expect with diagnostic tests
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Diagnostic test overview
The fecal occult blood test (FOBT) is a laboratory test used to detect blood in the stool. Blood in the stool may be the only symptom of a more serious condition, such as colon cancer, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or gastrointestinal bleeding. An FOBT is often done as part of a routine examination.
What you need to know
Knowing what to expect can help take the stress out of any procedure. For a fecal occult blood test, you will be asked to collect several samples of stool, which will be sent to a laboratory for testing. Your physician will notify you of the results.
Learn more about colon cancer prevention, including colon cancer symptoms, risk factors, and more.
How to prepare?
There is no required preparation for a fecal occult blood test (FOBT), although you may want to empty your bladder to make yourself more comfortable.
