Epic Test Code LAB695 Stool, Occult Blood (triple cards), Screening only
Performing Location(s)
BMC,CRH,LFH,OCH,FTT,FOX
Specimen Type
3 consecutive random stool samples within 21 days.
Preferred Container
Seracult Plus
Alternate Container
Stool Container
Volume Required
Three Cards
Transportation Needs
Cards must be returned to the laboratory for testing within 21 days after preparation *Transport at room temperature
Storage Requirements
Store the card at room temperature
Causes for Rejection
Specimen is applied to wrong side of the card
Stool card received beyond expiration date printed on card
Stool card no received within 21 days of collection
Stool samples > 48 hours old if collected and stored in a stool container
Limitations
Results can only be regarded as preliminary screening or as an aid to diagnosis and cannot be considered conclusive evidence of the presence or absence of gastrointestinal bleeding or pathology. Certain medications may cause gastrointestinal irritation leading to occult bleeding. This may be a false positive test result. A negative result can be obtained even when a GI disorder is present as not all polyps or colorectal cancers bleed or may bleed intermittently. Iron-rich supplements have been associated with false positive results. Ingestion of high doses (>250 mg/day) of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) have been linked to false negative results.
Reference Values
Population | Units | Reference Range |
All Populations | none | Negative |
Days of Analysis
All
Available STAT
Yes
Includes
Testing of three cards submitted to the laboratory
Additional Information
Workflow for Occult Blood X 3, stool Outpatient
NOTE: Three Cards can only be used for screening for consecutive collections.
Patient Preparation: Patient should be placed on a meat-free low peroxidase diet at least 2 days prior and during collection to minimize false positive test results; Foods to be avoided include: beef, cauliflower, horseradish, red radishes, turnips, broccoli, and cantaloupe; Intake of Vitamin C in excess of 250 mg/day, iron rich supplements and aspirin should be avoided.
Patients experiencing hemorrhoidal bleeding, having menstrual period or bleeding from nose, gums, etc. should delay testing for at least 48 hours from the time bleeding has stopped.
CPT Code
82270
Last Updated
24-Jan-23