Tests Used to Diagnose Blood in Stools

Blood in stools can be a concerning symptom that may indicate a serious underlying condition. While it can be caused by a number of factors, including hemorrhoids and anal fissures, it can also be a sign of colorectal cancer or inflammatory bowel disease. To determine the cause of blood in stools, healthcare providers may use a variety of tests. In this article, we will explore the tests used to diagnose blood in stools.

Stool Occult Blood Test

The stool occult blood test is a common test used to diagnose blood in stools. It is a simple test that involves collecting a small sample of stool and testing it for the presence of blood. The test is often recommended as a routine screening for colorectal cancer for people over the age of 50. However, it can also be used to diagnose other conditions that may cause blood in stools, such as inflammatory bowel disease.

Colonoscopy

Colonoscopy is a more invasive test used to diagnose blood in stools. It involves inserting a long, flexible tube with a camera into the rectum and colon to examine the lining of the intestine.

During the procedure, healthcare providers can take biopsies of any abnormal tissue or growths that may be causing the blood in stools. Colonoscopy is often recommended as a follow-up to a positive stool occult blood test or as a routine screening for colorectal cancer.

Sigmoidoscopy

Sigmoidoscopy is a similar test to colonoscopy, but it only examines the lower part of the colon and rectum. It is less invasive than a colonoscopy and is often used as a screening tool for colorectal cancer or to diagnose other conditions that may cause blood in stools, such as inflammatory bowel disease.

CT Scan

A CT scan is a type of imaging test that uses X-rays to create detailed images of the inside of the body. It can be used to diagnose conditions that may cause blood in stools, such as tumors or inflammatory bowel disease. During the test, a contrast dye may be injected into the body to help highlight any abnormalities.

MRI

MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging, is another type of imaging test that can be used to diagnose blood in stools. It uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the inside of the body. Like a CT scan, it can be used to diagnose conditions that may cause blood in stools, such as tumors or

inflammatory bowel disease.

Fecal Calprotectin Test

The fecal calprotectin test is a newer test used to diagnose blood in stools. It measures the level of calprotectin, a protein found in white blood cells, in the stool. Elevated levels of calprotectin may indicate inflammation in the intestines, which can cause blood in stools. This test is often used to diagnose inflammatory bowel disease.

Upper Endoscopy

While blood in stools is typically associated with conditions in the colon and rectum, it can also be caused by conditions in the upper gastrointestinal tract, such as ulcers or gastritis.

Upper endoscopy is a test that involves inserting a long, flexible tube with a camera into the mouth and down the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine to examine the lining of the upper gastrointestinal tract. During the procedure, healthcare providers can take biopsies of any abnormal tissue or growths that may be causing the blood in stools.

Conclusion

Blood in stools can be a concerning symptom that may indicate a serious underlying condition. To determine the cause of blood in stools, healthcare providers may use a variety of tests, including stool occult blood tests, colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, CT scans, MRI, fecal calprotectin tests, and upper endoscopy.

It is important to work with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate tests and receive a proper diagnosis. Early detection and treatment of conditions that may cause blood in stools, such as colorectal cancer and inflammatory bowel disease, can improve outcomes and prevent complications.