Székletteszt

Székletteszt, also known as a stool test or fecal occult blood test (FOBT), is a medical examination used to detect the presence of blood in feces. This blood is often invisible to the naked eye, hence the term "occult." The test is a crucial tool for screening and diagnosing various gastrointestinal conditions, including colorectal cancer, polyps, ulcers, and inflammation of the digestive tract.

There are two primary types of FOBTs: guaiac-based and immunochemical. Guaiac-based tests detect the heme component of hemoglobin, which is present in blood. Immunochemical tests specifically detect human hemoglobin and are generally considered more sensitive and specific, as they are less likely to be affected by dietary factors.

The procedure for a székletteszt typically involves collecting a small sample of stool using a provided kit. Instructions usually guide the patient on how to collect the sample from different parts of the stool and how to apply it to a testing card or solution. These samples are then sent to a laboratory for analysis. A positive result indicates the presence of blood and usually necessitates further investigation by a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause. Early detection through székletteszt can significantly improve outcomes for many gastrointestinal diseases.