Fecal Immunohistochemical Testing (FIT) for Occult Blood

A Fecal Immunohistochemical Testing (FIT) is used to screen for hidden (occult) blood in the stool, which can be an early sign of colorectal cancer or other gastrointestinal conditions like polyps, ulcers, or inflammation. Unlike older guaiac-based tests, the FIT test specifically detects human hemoglobin (a component of blood) using antibodies, making it more accurate for identifying blood from the lower intestines.

FIT is a simple, non-invasive test often recommended for routine colorectal cancer screening, especially for adults over 50 or those at higher risk. If blood is detected in the stool sample, additional testing, such as a colonoscopy, may be recommended to determine the source and rule out or diagnose potential conditions.

Avoid testing during menstruation or if there is active bleeding from hemorrhoids, as this can interfere with results.

 



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