FIT (Fecal Immunochemical) Test: A Screening Test for Colon Cancer

The Fecal Immunochemical Test detects hidden blood in stool and is primarily used for colorectal cancer screening. It's a simple, non-invasive way to check for potential health concerns.

FIT Test

Here are the basic details of the FIT Test.

*Price range may vary as per location, lab type, and procedure of lab test.

FIT Test Means

• The Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) is a non-invasive screening method for colorectal cancer.
• FIT detects hidden blood in stool, which can be an early sign of colorectal cancer.
• It's cost-effective and widely used for routine cancer screening.
• FIT is more specific and reliable than traditional FOBT tests.
• The test is simple, requiring a stool sample and often provides results within a few days.

FIT Test Purpose

The purpose of the FIT Test is to:

• Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) screens for colorectal cancer.
• Detects hidden blood in stool to identify potential cancer or precancerous lesions.
• Used for early cancer detection in asymptomatic individuals.
• Non-invasive and helps reduce unnecessary hospitalizations and treatments.
• Recommended for adults aged 45 and older for colorectal cancer screening.

FIT Test Preparation

Here is the basic preparation for the FIT Test.

Before Test

• No dietary or medication restrictions are needed.
• Avoid dietary supplements containing iron, as they can affect test results.
• Collect a stool sample as instructed by your healthcare provider.

During Test

• Follow the provided instructions for collecting a stool sample.
• Ensure the sample is uncontaminated by urine, toilet water, or toilet paper.
• Mail the sample to the designated laboratory on the same day of collection, following specific guidelines.

After Test

• Resume normal activities immediately; no downtime is required.
• Await test results, which are usually available within a few days.
• Contact your healthcare provider to discuss and interpret the results.

FIT Test Procedure

Here is the basic FIT Test Procedure.

• Collecting a stool sample at home.
• Using a provided brush or stick to collect the sample.
• Sending the sample to the laboratory for analysis.
• Results typically available within 1 to 5 days.
• Results reported as positive, negative, or invalid for the presence of blood.

FIT Test Result

• Positive result: Indicates the presence of blood in stool but doesn't diagnose a specific condition.
• Negative result: Suggests low risk of preterm birth within 2 weeks when used in Fetal Fibronectin Test.
• Invalid result: Requires repeating the test due to improper functioning.

FIT Test Normal Result

Here is the normal range of the FIT Test.

FIT Test Interpretation

Here is the Interpretation of the FIT Test.

FIT Test Positive

Here are some possible causes of positive FIT Test.

A positive FIT Test result may indicate various conditions, including colorectal cancer, gastrointestinal bleeding, hemorrhoids, ulcers, and more.

FIT Test Negative

Here are some possible causes of negative FIT Test.

A negative FIT Test result indicates the absence of conditions such as colorectal cancer, gastrointestinal bleeding, hemorrhoids, ulcers, and more.

Specimen Requirements For FIT Test

Here are the specimen requirements for the FIT Test.

FIT Test is Safe?

FIT (Fecal Immunochemical Test) is generally safe and non-invasive.

• It poses no risk of radiation exposure.
• It's simple, with minimal discomfort.
• No fasting or dietary restrictions are necessary.
• FIT is a safer alternative to older stool-based tests.

When Do You Get FIT Test Results? 

FIT test results are usually available within a week.

• Most patients receive their results in 3-5 days.
• Quick turnaround time for peace of mind.
• Enables prompt follow-up actions if needed.
• Provides timely information for healthcare decisions.

FIT Test Limitation

Here is the basic limitation of FIT Test.

• FIT may yield false negatives, missing some cases.
• Not a diagnostic test; follow-up colonoscopy may be needed.
• Affected by diet or medications.
• Limited to detecting blood; other issues may not be identified.
• Can't determine the source or cause of bleeding.

FIT Test Risk Factors

Here are some of the risk factors of the FIT Test.

• Risk increases with age, more common in older adults.
• Family history of colorectal cancer.
• Personal history of colorectal cancer or polyps.
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
• Certain genetic syndromes.

Doctor Recommendations After FIT Test Result

 Here are the Doctor's recommendations or consult a specialist after the FIT Test.

FIT Test Price

Here are the estimated FIT Test Prices in India with different top cities:

*Prices are approximate and vary depending on a specific laboratory or healthcare facility.

Summary

Overall, The Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) is a non-invasive, safe screening for colorectal cancer and gastrointestinal bleeding. Get peace of mind with this simple home test. Also check Drlogy Test for detailed information about all medical tests for patients, doctors, scholers and medical students.

Reference

• Fecal immunochemical test - Wikipedia [1].
• Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) for Colon Cancer Screening - NIH [2].