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Hemoccult II (Fecal Occult Blood Test, Stool)

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

This test checks for hidden blood in your stool, which may indicate bleeding in your digestive tract.

Quick summary

["A simple test to detect potential gastrointestinal bleeding or early signs of conditions like colorectal cancer."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
90072-0
Short code
Haem + Neiss Islt Cult
Synonyms
Haem + Neiss Islt Cult
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
organism-specific-culture
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

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unexplained weight loss, changes in bowel habits, or persistent abdominal discomfort. It’s also part of routine screening for certain conditions, especially in older adults or those with a family history of colorectal cancer.

How the Test Works

You’ll collect a small sample of your stool using provided collection cards. The test detects hidden blood (hemoglobin) in the stool, which may come from bleeding in the digestive tract. The results are usually ready within 15 minutes.

Sample Collection

Follow your provider’s instructions carefully. Collect stool samples from multiple areas of your rectum to ensure accuracy. Avoid using toilet paper or menstrual blood, as these can interfere with results.

Test Results Interpretation

Positive results mean there is likely hidden blood in your stool, which warrants further investigation, such as additional tests or a colonoscopy. Negative results do not rule out bleeding entirely, so follow-up may still be recommended based on your symptoms or risk factors.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Hidden blood in stool can signal serious conditions like peptic ulcers, inflammatory bowel disease, or colorectal cancer. Early detection improves treatment outcomes, so this test is important for monitoring symptoms or preventive screening.

Short name

Stool Blood Test

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive test mean?
A positive result suggests the presence of blood in your stool, which may indicate an underlying issue like bleeding from the digestive tract. Your doctor will discuss next steps, which could include additional tests or a colonoscopy to investigate further.
Can diet affect this test?
Yes, certain foods and supplements (like red meat, vitamin C, or iron) can make the test more likely to detect false positives. Avoid these for at least 3 days before testing to get accurate results.
How soon will I get my results?
Results are typically available within 15 minutes after the test is completed. Your healthcare provider will discuss the findings with you, including any follow-up actions 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