OCCULT BLOOD STOOL

Lab Section Category	Bacteriology/Mycology/Parasitology - Parasites & Other Investigations View write-up
Specimen Required	Stool in screw-capped container delivered to the laboratory within 24 hours. Because of the non-homogeneity of stool, three consecutive samples may be sent (as three separate tests; i.e. do not pool stools over several days).
Method	Immunochromatographic reaction using antibodies specific to human Hb
Test Results	Positive Negative
Turnaround Time	2 - 4 hours
Day(s) Test Set up	Monday - Saturday
Remarks	Patient preparation and special precautions : Aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, phenylbutazone, reserpine and alcohol can cause irritation of the gastric mucosa and occult bleeding in some patients. These agents should be avoided for a minimum of two days prior to testing. No specific dietary restrictions are necessary as this test is specific for human haemoglobin. Patients with bleeding conditions (haemorrhoids and menstrual bleeding) are not considered appropriate for testing.

Last Updated - 18 Jul 2025

OCCULT BLOOD, STOOL