Colorectal Cancer Endoscopic Screening Test (Fecal Immunochemical Test for Occult Blood)
This test detects hidden blood in your stool using a simple at-home collection kit. It helps screen for early signs of colorectal cancer or precancerous polyps.
["A simple, painless screening tool to check for hidden blood in your stool, which may signal colorectal cancer or other gastrointestinal issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 111957-7
- Short code
- Chrctztn dx Colon Endscpy
- Synonyms
- Chrctztn dx Colon Endscpy
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- endoscopy
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
How the Test Works
You’ll collect a small sample of stool using a provided kit. The test detects human hemoglobin, a protein found in blood, to identify any hidden blood in your stool. Results are compared to a reference range to determine if further testing is needed.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is required, but avoid using over-the-counter pain relievers (like aspirin or ibuprofen) for 3 days before testing, as they can cause false positives. Also, avoid eating red meat or high-fiber foods for 3 days prior to avoid interfering with the test.
What to Expect During the Test
The test involves collecting a small sample of stool using a provided collection device. You’ll return the sample to your healthcare provider for analysis. The test is quick and painless, requiring no special equipment or procedure.
What the Results Mean
A negative result means no visible blood was detected in your stool sample. If your result is positive, your healthcare provider may recommend additional testing, such as a colonoscopy, to further investigate.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is primarily used as a screening tool to detect early signs of colorectal cancer or precancerous changes in the colon or rectum. Early detection can lead to timely treatment and improved outcomes. While it’s not a definitive diagnostic test, it helps identify individuals who may need further evaluation.
Short name
FIT (Fecal Immunochemical Test)
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
How often should I get this test?
Can I eat or drink anything before the test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy