What if a fecal occult blood test is positive?

A positive fecal occult blood test result may be followed by:

Sigmoidoscopy: an examination of the rectum and lower colon with a lighted instrument to look for abnormalities, such as polyps;

Colonoscopy: a more thorough examination of the rectum and entire colon;

A double contrast barium enema: a series of x-rays of the colon and rectum.

The majority (greater than 90%) of the polyps detected can be removed painlessly and safely during the Colonoscopy examination. Polyps so removed are later examined by a pathologist under the microscope. Individuals with pre-cancerous polyps have higher than average risk of colon cancer, and are advised to return for periodic surveillance colonoscopies. Colon cancers so detected are usually removed surgically, especially if the cancer has not already spread to other parts of the body. Pre-cancerous polyps that are too large or technically not possible to remove during colonoscopy are usually removed surgically. Several studies have shown that fecal occult blood testing can reduce death rates from colorectal cancer by 30-40%.

If no colon abnormalities are found in an individual whose stool is positive for occult blood, considerations are then given to examining the stomach and the small intestines for sources of blood loss.

We thought you might find these product(s) useful:


• EZ Detect Colon Cancer Home Fecal Occult Blood Test Kit
• Colon Cancer Home Fecal Blood Test Kit

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