Fecal occult blood test (FOBT)
Hello doctor, today I went to the lab to test for fecal occult blood.
After the test, I remembered that last Monday I had a hard stool that caused a tear and bleeding from my hemorrhoids.
I would like to ask if this will affect the interpretation of the occult blood test results.
Thank you for your response.
Xiao Ming, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/11/08
Dr. Cai Jinji reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Dear Mr.
Xiao Ming: It is recommended that you discuss the examination results with your physician during your follow-up visit.
Director Cai Jin-ji, Department of Hepatobiliary and Gastroenterology, Nantou Hospital.
Reply Date: 2023/11/08
More Info
Yes, hemorrhoid bleeding can indeed affect the results of a fecal occult blood test (iFOBT). The iFOBT is designed to detect hidden (occult) blood in the stool, which can be indicative of various gastrointestinal issues, including polyps, cancers, or bleeding from other sources within the digestive tract. However, if there is bleeding from hemorrhoids, this can lead to a false positive result on the test.
When hemorrhoids are irritated or damaged, they can bleed, and this blood can mix with the stool. Since the iFOBT is sensitive to any blood in the stool, the presence of blood from hemorrhoids could result in an elevated reading, even if there is no significant bleeding from the gastrointestinal tract itself. This is particularly relevant if the bleeding is recent or if the hemorrhoids are actively bleeding at the time of the test.
In your case, since you experienced bleeding from the hemorrhoids due to hard stools, it is possible that this could have influenced the results of your fecal occult blood test. The test may have detected the blood from the hemorrhoids rather than from a more serious gastrointestinal issue.
If you have concerns about the accuracy of your test results, it is advisable to discuss this with your healthcare provider. They may recommend repeating the test after a period of time or suggest alternative diagnostic procedures, such as a colonoscopy, to ensure that there are no underlying issues that need to be addressed.
In addition to the potential for false positives, it is also important to consider the overall context of your gastrointestinal health. If you have a history of gastrointestinal issues, changes in bowel habits, or other symptoms such as abdominal pain or weight loss, these factors should be taken into account when interpreting your test results.
In summary, while hemorrhoid bleeding can affect the results of a fecal occult blood test, it is essential to consider the entire clinical picture. If you have any doubts or if your symptoms persist, follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation and management. They can help determine the best course of action based on your individual health needs and the results of your tests.
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