Gastrointestinal Stool Hemoglobin (Qualitative, Immunoassay-Based)
This test detects hidden blood in your stool, which may indicate bleeding in your digestive tract.
["A positive result suggests possible internal bleeding that needs further evaluation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 12503-9
- Short code
- Hgb sp4 Stl gastro Ql
- Synonyms
- Hgb sp4 Stl gastro Ql
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- stool
- Container
- Clean container
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 10
- Ref high
- 40
- Critical range
- 7 N/A – 20 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 84484
- SNOMED
- 302774002
- Specimen volume
- 5 g
- Stability
- Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test looks for hemoglobin—a protein in red blood cells—using an immunoassay method. If blood is present in your stool (even in small amounts), the test can detect it by identifying hemoglobin fragments.
Why It’s Done
Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms like unexplained weight loss, black or tarry stools, anemia, or persistent stomach pain. It helps identify sources of bleeding in the digestive system, such as ulcers, tumors, or inflammatory conditions.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may be asked to collect a sample of stool in a container provided by your healthcare provider. If you’re using laxatives or medications that affect stool color, let your doctor know.
What to Expect During the Test
The test involves sending your stool sample to a lab, where it’s analyzed for hidden blood. Results are typically reported as positive or negative, not with a specific numeric value.
Reference range
Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A positive result means blood is likely present in your stool, which could signal conditions like gastrointestinal bleeding, peptic ulcers, hemorrhoids, or colorectal cancer. A negative result means no visible blood was detected, but further testing may still be needed if symptoms persist. Always discuss results with your doctor to determine the next steps.
Short name
Hemoglobin in Stool (Qualitative)
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink normally before this test?
What does a positive test mean?
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