Stool Occult Blood Test (Immunochemical) – Qualitative
This test detects hidden (occult) blood in your stool using an immunoassay method. It helps identify gastrointestinal bleeding that may not be visibly apparent.
["A positive result may signal an underlying issue like ulcers, polyps, or other gastrointestinal conditions requiring further evaluation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 45249-0
- Short code
- Evidence of TB resis
- Synonyms
- Evidence of TB resis
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- reported
- 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
Why This Test Is Done
Doctors may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unexplained fatigue, black or tarry stools, or unexplained anemia. It’s also used as a screening tool in certain high-risk groups, such as those with a family history of colorectal cancer.
How the Test Works
A small sample of your stool is applied to special test cards. The immunoassay detects hidden blood proteins (hemoglobin) that indicate bleeding in the digestive tract, providing a qualitative yes/no result.
Preparation
No special preparation is needed, but you should avoid certain foods or medications that may interfere with results, such as red meat, vitamin C supplements, or certain blood-thinning drugs. Collect a fresh stool sample in the morning.
What to Expect
The test is quick and painless. You’ll apply a sample to a card, which is then processed in a lab. Results are typically available within 24 hours.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A positive result suggests the presence of gastrointestinal bleeding, which could be caused by conditions like peptic ulcers, colorectal cancer, diverticulosis, or hemorrhoids. Further testing, such as colonoscopy or endoscopy, may be needed to determine the cause and guide treatment. A negative result does not rule out bleeding entirely, especially if symptoms persist.
Short name
Hemoccult II (qualitative stool test)
Frequently asked questions
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
What If I Have a Negative Result?
How Often Should I Get This 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