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Efaecium (Fecal) Hemoglobin by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) with Probe

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures tiny amounts of hemoglobin in your stool, which can help detect hidden blood (bleeding) in the digestive tract.

Quick summary

["Early detection of gastrointestinal bleeding may improve treatment outcomes."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
75690-8
Short code
Deprecated E faecium hsp60 Bld Pos Ql Prb Mag
Synonyms
Deprecated E faecium hsp60 Bld Pos Ql Prb Mag
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
probe-mag-capture
Specimen volume
3 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What Does This Test Measure?

Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. When bleeding occurs in the digestive system, hemoglobin can appear in stool. This test specifically looks for hemoglobin in stool samples to identify possible bleeding sources, such as ulcers, tumors, or other gastrointestinal issues.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unexplained weight loss, black or bloody stools, persistent abdominal pain, or if you’ve had recent trauma, surgery, or medications that increase bleeding risk.

How Is the Test Performed?

A small stool sample is collected (often via a stool collection kit provided by your doctor). The sample is then analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to detect hemoglobin levels.

What Are the Possible Results?

Results are qualitative (positive or negative) rather than quantitative, meaning they indicate whether hemoglobin was detected or not. A positive result suggests possible bleeding, but further testing is needed to determine the cause.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: This test is primarily used as a screening tool to identify gastrointestinal bleeding that may not be visibly apparent in stool. While it can help guide further diagnostic steps, it is not a definitive diagnostic test on its own. Positive results often prompt additional imaging or endoscopic evaluations to locate the source of bleeding.

Short name

Fecal Hemoglobin Test

Frequently asked questions

What Does a Positive Result Mean?
A positive result means hemoglobin was detected in your stool, which may indicate hidden bleeding in the digestive tract. This does not confirm the exact cause but may prompt further testing, such as an endoscopy or colonoscopy.
Can I Prepare for This Test?
No special preparation is needed, but avoid using stool softeners or supplements that may interfere with the test results. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for stool collection.
How Long Does It Take to Get Results?
Results are typically available within a few days to a week, depending on lab processing times. Follow-up with your healthcare provider to discuss next steps if needed.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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