Stool Tests for Colorectal Cancer
Results
For some FOBT kits, you can read the results yourself. Other tests, including FIT/iFOBT and stool DNA, are read by your doctor.
| Normal: |
A normal FIT/iFOBT or FOBT test means that there was no blood in your stool at the time of the test. A normal sDNA test means that no abnormal cells were found. Normal test results are called negative. |
|---|---|
| Abnormal: |
An abnormal FIT/iFOBT or FOBT test means that there was some blood in your stool at the time of the test. An abnormal sDNA test means that some abnormal cells were found. Abnormal test results are called positive. |
Normal results
If a stool test is normal, it does not always mean Reference colorectal cancer Opens New Window or Reference colon polyps Opens New Window are not present. That's because these tests can miss polyps and some cancers.
Talk with your doctor about how often you should do a test, depending on your age and any risk factors you may have for colorectal cancer.
Abnormal results
A colon polyp, a precancerous polyp, or cancer can cause a positive stool test. With a positive test, there is a small chance that you have early-stage colorectal cancer.
Talk with your doctor about what test you may need next. Most of the time, an abnormal stool test means that you will need to have a Reference colonoscopy Opens New Window.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference January 17, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Reference Arvydas D. Vanagunas, MD - Gastroenterology |
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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
