Orange-Red Oval Objects in Stool: Causes and Concerns

Fecal contents

For the past six months, I have been passing an orange-red oval-shaped object in my stool every few days (about the size of a peanut, with a smooth surface).
I have undergone fecal occult blood tests, both on my stool and on the passed object, and all results were negative.
However, I continue to pass these orange-red granular objects (without any bleeding).
Could this be intestinal tissue or a lipoma? Is it serious?

Mr. Zheng, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/06/29

Dr. Chen Jiaming reply Surgery

First of all, I must commend you for having the good habit of examining your stool, as early diagnosis of many diseases requires this initial awareness.
Generally speaking, the factors that determine the appearance and color of stool are numerous, including the composition of food, gut microbiota, peristaltic function, the state of digestive juices in the intestines, and, of course, the common concern of whether there is any bleeding.
The process of food being broken down and absorbed in the intestines is complex and variable; it may simply be a dietary issue.
You could try changing one commonly consumed food at a time to observe any differences.
Since you have already submitted the suspicious stool sample for testing and confirmed that there is no occult blood reaction, you have at least ruled out some common intestinal disorders.
However, if you are still concerned about your gut health, it may be advisable to schedule a colonoscopy at the age of fifty for further peace of mind.

Reply Date: 2016/06/29

More Info

The presence of orange-red oval objects in your stool can be concerning, and it's understandable that you're seeking clarity on this issue. Based on your description, these objects are approximately the size of a peanut and have a smooth surface. Given that you've already undergone a fecal occult blood test, which returned negative results, it suggests that there is no active bleeding in your gastrointestinal tract. However, the persistence of these orange-red objects warrants further investigation.

Possible Causes
1. Dietary Factors: One of the most common reasons for unusual stool appearances is diet. Foods rich in beta-carotene, such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and certain fruits, can lead to orange or reddish discoloration in stool. If you've recently increased your intake of such foods, this could explain the color change.

2. Digestive Health: The gastrointestinal tract can sometimes produce undigested food particles, especially if there are issues with digestion or absorption. This can lead to the formation of unusual stool shapes and colors. If your digestive system is not breaking down food properly, it might result in the excretion of these oval objects.

3. Parasites: While less common, certain intestinal parasites can cause the formation of unusual stool objects. If you have traveled recently or have been exposed to contaminated food or water, this could be a possibility. However, the negative occult blood tests make this less likely.

4. Lipomas or Other Growths: While it’s less common for benign growths like lipomas to be expelled in stool, it is not entirely impossible. Lipomas are typically soft, fatty lumps that can occur in various parts of the body, including the gastrointestinal tract. However, they usually do not present in stool unless there is a specific gastrointestinal issue.

5. Mucus or Other Secretions: Sometimes, the body produces mucus in response to irritation or inflammation in the intestines. This mucus can sometimes take on a different color, particularly if there is a dietary component involved.

Concerns and Recommendations
While the absence of blood is reassuring, the ongoing presence of these orange-red objects should not be ignored. Here are some steps you might consider:
- Keep a Food Diary: Track what you eat and see if there is a correlation between your diet and the appearance of these objects. This can help identify if dietary changes are responsible.

- Consult a Gastroenterologist: Given the persistence of the symptoms, it would be wise to consult a specialist. They may recommend further diagnostic tests, such as imaging studies (like an abdominal ultrasound or CT scan) or a colonoscopy, to rule out any underlying conditions.

- Monitor Symptoms: Pay attention to any additional symptoms that may develop, such as changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, weight loss, or changes in appetite. These could provide important clues to your healthcare provider.

- Consider Stool Analysis: A comprehensive stool analysis can provide more information about your digestive health and help identify any potential infections or malabsorption issues.

In conclusion, while the presence of orange-red oval objects in your stool may not immediately indicate a serious condition, it is essential to investigate further to rule out any underlying issues. Your health is paramount, and consulting with a healthcare professional will provide you with the best course of action.

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