Fecal Occult Blood Test Results: When to Seek Further Evaluation

Fecal occult blood issue?

The fecal occult blood immunoassay result from the health check shows a value of 1.8 ng/mL.
Why does the report indicate a positive result, and is this considered abnormal? Should further monitoring or additional testing be pursued?

Xiao Wen, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/11/01

Dr. Zhang Kebin reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, Xiao-Wen! Regarding your question, the fecal occult blood immunochemical test result is 1.8 ng/mL.
Is this abnormal? If it is abnormal, is further testing necessary? The normal ranges can vary due to differences in testing equipment across hospitals, so it is advisable to consult the clinic or hospital where the test was performed.
If the result is indeed abnormal, according to the recommendations of the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, a colonoscopy should be performed after just one abnormal result.
However, this test can also be affected by factors such as blood in urine or menstrual blood, so it is recommended to follow up with the clinic or hospital for further inquiries.

Reply Date: 2020/11/01

More Info

The fecal occult blood test (FOBT) is a screening tool used to detect hidden (occult) blood in the stool, which can be an indicator of various gastrointestinal conditions, including colorectal cancer, polyps, or other gastrointestinal bleeding. A result of 1.8 ng/mL, especially if flagged as abnormal, warrants further evaluation.

Understanding Your Results
1. Normal vs. Abnormal Results: Typically, a negative result indicates no detectable blood, while a positive result suggests the presence of blood. The threshold for what is considered "normal" can vary by laboratory, but any detectable level of blood, such as 1.8 ng/mL, is often considered abnormal and may require further investigation.

2. Potential Causes of Positive Results: A positive FOBT can arise from various conditions:
- Colorectal Cancer: The most concerning cause, especially in individuals over 50 or those with risk factors.

- Polyps: Benign growths that can bleed.

- Gastrointestinal Disorders: Conditions such as ulcers, diverticulitis, or inflammatory bowel disease can also lead to bleeding.

- Dietary Factors: Certain foods (like red meat) or medications (like NSAIDs) can sometimes cause false positives.

Next Steps
Given that your result is flagged as abnormal, it is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider. Here are some recommended steps:
1. Consult Your Physician: Schedule an appointment to discuss your results. Your doctor will consider your medical history, symptoms, and risk factors.

2. Further Testing: Your physician may recommend additional tests, such as:
- Colonoscopy: This is the gold standard for investigating the source of gastrointestinal bleeding. It allows direct visualization of the colon and the ability to biopsy any suspicious areas.

- Imaging Studies: Depending on your symptoms, imaging studies like a CT scan may be necessary to evaluate other potential sources of bleeding.

3. Review of Medications and Diet: Discuss any medications you are taking and your dietary habits with your doctor, as these can influence test results.

4. Monitoring Symptoms: Be vigilant for any symptoms such as changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, weight loss, or rectal bleeding, and report these to your healthcare provider.

Importance of Follow-Up
It is essential not to ignore an abnormal FOBT result. While it does not definitively indicate cancer or a serious condition, it is a signal that further investigation is warranted. Early detection of colorectal cancer significantly improves treatment outcomes, making it crucial to address any abnormalities promptly.

Conclusion
In summary, a fecal occult blood test result of 1.8 ng/mL is considered abnormal and should not be overlooked. It is advisable to seek further evaluation from a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and appropriate management. Early intervention can be key in addressing potential health issues effectively.

Similar Q&A

Persistent Diarrhea: When to Seek Further Gastrointestinal Evaluation?

I have been experiencing diarrhea for the past month. I underwent a fecal occult blood test, which showed no issues, but I am still having diarrhea. Should I undergo further testing? Thank you.

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, you may consider undergoing a barium enema or a colonoscopy, along with other tests such as stool culture for infections. Sincerely, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Attending Physician, Department of Gastroenterology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Understanding Fecal Occult Blood: When to Seek Further Evaluation

Hello Doctor: I have a history of constipation and mixed hemorrhoids. In June 2018, I underwent a colonoscopy at Boai Hospital, and the results were normal with no polyps. After giving birth to two children, my hemorrhoid issues have worsened. Following an evaluation by a colorec...

Dr. Yang Zhichao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello Ms. Pan, your condition still needs to be addressed. If the moles are internal or external, they can be treated through medical or surgical intervention. Therefore, it is important for you to seek a physician's evaluation before proceeding with further treatment. Thank...

Understanding Fecal Occult Blood Test Results and Next Steps

Hello, doctor. I would like to ask a few questions and would appreciate your assistance. Thank you. 1. Currently, the National Health Administration is promoting fecal occult blood testing, and if the result is positive, a colonoscopy is required. If the colonoscopy results are ...

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, hemorrhoid issues can be observed during a colonoscopy. If the colonoscopy results are normal, then observation is sufficient for individuals with disabilities. If a barium enema has already been performed, considering a flexible sigmoidoscopy may have a higher chance of s...

Should You Get a Colonoscopy After Positive Fecal Occult Blood Test?

If the fecal occult blood test results are positive for both chemical and immunological methods, is it recommended to proceed with a colonoscopy or to repeat the occult blood test?

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
A positive fecal occult blood test indicates the presence of blood in the stool, thus further investigation is necessary to identify the source of the bleeding. According to the recommendations of the American Gastroenterological Association, it is advised to conduct three consec...