Occult Blood-Colorectal Screen

Useful For: This is a sensitive test for enhanced detection of fecal occult blood.

Methodology: Hemoccult Guaic

Specimen Requirements:
The following guidelines should be followed for a minimum of 3 days before and during collection of the stool specimens unless otherwise indicated.

Refer to Patient Information for specimen collection handout.

DIET GUIDELINES

  • For 3 days before and during stool collection period, avoid red meat (beef, lamb, or liver).
  • Eat a well-balanced diet including fiber such as bran cereals, fruits, and vegetables.
  • Do not drink excessive alcohol as it may cause false positive results.

DRUG GUIDELINES

  • Do not take aspirin (more than one adult aspirin/day) or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen or naproxen) for 7 days prior to testing and during testing.
  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol®) can be taken as needed.
  • For 3 days before and during stool collection period, avoid vitamin C (ascorbic acid) in excess of 250 mg per day from supplements, citrus fruits, and juices. Some iron supplements contain Vitamin C in excess of 250 mg.

NOTE

  • Do not collect samples during, or until 3 days after your menstrual period, or while you have bleeding hemorrhoids or blood in your urine.
  • Protect slides from heat, light and volatile chemicals (iodine, ammonia, bleach, and household cleaners).
  • Do not refrigerate or freeze.
  • Please call Meadville Medical Center Laboratory at 814-333-5511 if you have any questions.

COLLECT SPECIMEN AS FOLLOWS:

  1. Fill out all the information requested on the front of each slide. Slides are supplied by Meadville Medical Center Laboratory.
  2. Collect samples from bowel movements collected on three different days.
  3. It is best to collect the specimen in a clean, dry container, but it is also acceptable from the toilet bowl. (Remove toilet bowl cleaner from toilet tank and flush twice before proceeding if collecting specimen from the toilet.)
  4. With a wooden applicator stick, collect a small amount of stool.
  5. Spread a thin smear on window A of the first slide. Repeat from a different portion of the stool for window B. Close the cover flap.
  6. Repeat these instructions for the remaining slides after your next bowel movements. Collect samples from consecutive bowel movements or those closely spaced.
  7. Return the slides to the laboratory after all specimens are collected. They should be returned to the lab within 3 days of the first specimen’s collection.

Source: SKD Hemoccult® Sensa

Analytical Time: 1 day

Days Set Up: Monday through Saturday

CPT Information:
82270 –

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