Flushable reagent stool blood test
What is Flushable Reagent Stool Tests?
The flushable reagent stool tests, also known as the pH stool test, are a non-invasive way to detect the presence of fecal blood or occult blood in the stool. It is used to detect a variety of pathologies, including ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and other gastrointestinal conditions.
The test is done by placing a small piece of the patient's stool on a pH test strip each day, and then comparing the results with a specified control pH. If the pH of the sample is lower than the pH of the control, it indicates that the test is positive and fecal blood is present.
Preparation for Flushable Reagent Stool Tests
Before beginning the test, the patient should follow his or her usual dietary guidelines. The patient should also avoid taking any medications that might interfere with the results of the test, such as antacids, laxatives, or antibiotics. It is also important to refrain from eating any foods that will affect the pH of the sample, such as dairy products, spices, and red meat.
Procedure for Flushable Reagent Stool Tests
The procedure for flushable reagent stool tests is simple and easy to follow. The patient will first need to collect a sample of his or her stool on a piece of paper. The paper should be placed in a small container with a tight lid. The container should then be taken to the laboratory, where the technician will take a small amount of the sample and place it on a pH test strip. After waiting for a few minutes, the technician will compare the results to a control pH. If the pH of the sample is lower than the control, it indicates that the test is positive and fecal blood is present.
Types of Flushable Reagent Stool Tests
- Hematest Reagent – It is a very sensitive test and detects as little as 10 micrograms of heme per 100mg of stool.
- Hemoccult Sensa – This test is not as sensitive as Hesmatest, but is still a sensitive test that is commonly used in certain clinical settings.
- Guaiac Test – This is the most common type of flushable reagent stool test used in clinical practice. It is very inexpensive and is easy to use.
Risks of Flushable Reagent Stool Tests
The most common risk associated with flushable reagent stool tests is a false-positive result, which occurs when the pH of the sample is lower than that of the control but fecal blood is not actually present. False negative results can also occur, which is when the pH of the sample is higher than the control but fecal blood is actually present. These false results may occur due to dietary and medication influences, or improper sample collection.
Why Should You Use Flushable Reagent Stool Tests?
Flushable reagent stool tests are an effective way to detect the presence of fecal blood in the stool, which can often be a sign of a serious underlying condition. These tests are non-invasive, inexpensive, and easy to use, making them an ideal option for detecting the presence of fecal blood in the stool.
When Should You Use Flushable Reagent Stool Tests?
Flushable reagent stool tests should be used if your doctor suspects that you have a gastrointestinal disorder such as ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, or IBS. It is often the first line of testing used to detect occult blood in the stool, and can help aid in the diagnosis of these conditions.