Fecal Immunochemical Test - Qualitative

What is a Faecal Immunochemical Test? 

A faecal immunochemical test (FIT) is a simple, non-invasive screening test. It uses advanced antibody technology to detect tiny amounts of human blood in your stool that may not be visible to the naked eye. The test helps identify early signs of colorectal cancer, precancerous polyps, and other conditions that may cause bleeding in your lower digestive tract. 

What does the Faecal Immunochemical Test measure? 

The faecal immunochemical test specifically measures several important health conditions and indicators: 

• Detects hidden human haemoglobin (blood protein) in stool samples 

• Identifies potential bleeding from the colon or rectum 

• Screens for early signs of colorectal cancer and precancerous polyps 

• Helps assess gastrointestinal bleeding disorders 

• Monitors high-risk patients for colorectal neoplasms 

• Provides a non-invasive alternative to colonoscopy for initial screening 

Faecal Immunochemical Test: Who Needs It and Why It's Done 

What Symptoms May Call for a Faecal Immunochemical Test?  

Your doctor may recommend this test if you experience any of these concerning symptoms: 

• Persistent changes in bowel habits lasting more than a few weeks 

• Rectal bleeding or visible blood in your stool 

• Ongoing abdominal discomfort, cramps, or unexplained pain 

• Feeling that your bowel doesn't empty completely 

• Unexplained weight loss without trying 

• Persistent weakness or fatigue that could indicate anaemia 

• Family history of colorectal cancer or polyps 

Who should get a Faecal Immunochemical Test? 

Several groups of people can benefit from this important screening test: 

• Adults aged 45 and above for routine colorectal cancer screening 

• Individuals with family history of colorectal cancer or genetic syndromes 

• People experiencing symptoms related to lower gastrointestinal bleeding 

• Those at higher risk due to inflammatory bowel conditions 

• Patients requiring monitoring after previous polyp removal 

• Anyone recommended by their healthcare provider based on risk assessment 

Why is a Faecal Immunochemical Test done? 

This test serves as a crucial first-line screening tool for colorectal cancer, helping detect problems at their earliest and most treatable stages when successful treatment outcomes are highest. 

Importance of a Faecal Immunochemical Test 

The faecal immunochemical test (qualitative) plays a vital role in preventive healthcare by offering early detection of colorectal cancer and precancerous conditions. This convenient, safe screening method can identify problems long before symptoms appear, when treatment is most effective. The test's non-invasive nature makes it accessible to more people, supporting public health screening programmes.  

By detecting bleeding that may indicate polyps or early cancer, FIT enables timely intervention that can prevent cancer development altogether. Given the rising incidence of colorectal cancer in India, accessible screening methods like FIT are essential for improving health outcomes and saving lives through early detection. 

Faecal Immunochemical Test Booking & Reports – Metropolis Healthcare India 

How to Book a Faecal Immunochemical Test? 

1. Simple Online Booking 
   Booking can be done through the Metropolis Healthcare App or website. Select Faecal Immunochemical Test, choose a convenient time slot, and provide your address for a stool sample collection at home. You can also visit the nearest Metropolis Lab if you prefer to give the sample directly at the lab. 
2. Safe Home Sample Collection 
   Our trained professionals ensure timely collection of your sample while strictly following all safety and hygiene protocols. 
3. Sample Tracking Updates 
   Stay informed at every step. From collection to testing, you can track your sample directly through the Metropolis Healthcare website. 
4. Accurate Laboratory Testing 
   Your sample is processed at our NABL & CAP accredited laboratories, where expert technicians ensure accurate results. 
5. Quick & Easy Reports 
   Receive your test reports promptly via email, WhatsApp, or by downloading them directly from the Metropolis Healthcare website or app. 

Is home sample collection for Faecal Immunochemical Test available near you?  

Yes, home sample collection is available for the faecal immunochemical test. Our trained professionals provide you with a proper collection kit and clear instructions, ensuring accurate sample collection in the comfort of your home. Metropolis Healthcare's extensive network of over 10,000 touchpoints ensures reliable sample collection and processing, delivering accurate results you can trust for your health decisions. 

How Long Does It Take to Get a Faecal Immunochemical Test Report? 

Reports are usually available after 8 hours once the sample reaches the pathology lab. 

Note: Reporting time may vary depending on your location. 

Where can I see or get Faecal Immunochemical Test results? 

Test results from Metropolis Healthcare can be accessed through multiple convenient channels. You can log in to the Metropolis website using your credentials or use the Metropolis Healthcare app to view and download your reports. Additionally, test reports are sent via email or WhatsApp, and you also have the option to collect a physical copy directly from the lab. 

Interpreting Faecal Immunochemical Test Results 

What Your Faecal Immunochemical Test Results May Indicate 

Understanding your test results helps you make informed decisions about your health: 

Parameter	Reference Range	Positive Result	Negative Result
FIT (Qualitative)	Negative	Hidden blood detected; requires further investigation like colonoscopy	No hidden blood detected; continue routine screening as recommended

 

Conditions that May Affect Faecal Immunochemical Test Accuracy 

Several factors can influence your faecal immunochemical test results and should be considered: 

• Certain medications like blood thinners or anti-inflammatory drugs may affect bleeding patterns 

• Collection during menstruation, urinary tract infections, or haematuria can cause false positives 

• Severe constipation or straining during bowel movements may influence results 

• Active haemorrhoids or anal fissures might contribute to positive results 

• Dehydration leading to very hard stools can make sample collection difficult 

• Recent gastrointestinal procedures or treatments may temporarily affect accuracy 

• Some polyps and cancers bleed intermittently, potentially causing false negatives 

How is a Faecal Immunochemical Test Done? 

The faecal immunochemical test involves a simple collection process you can complete at home: 

• Receive a collection kit with detailed instructions and a leak-proof container 

• Collect approximately 100 grams of stool sample, preferably from a morning bowel movement 

• Use the provided collection device to gather the sample without contamination 

• Secure the sample in the leak-proof container with proper labelling 

• Store the sample at recommended temperature (2-8°C) until pickup or delivery 

• Arrange for sample transport to the laboratory within the specified timeframe 

• Laboratory technicians process the sample using immunochromatography methods 

• Results are analysed and reported within the designated timeframe 

How Should You Prepare for a Faecal Immunochemical Test? 

Proper preparation ensures the most accurate results for your screening: 

• Avoid red meat for 3 days before sample collection to prevent interference 

• Stop certain medications 7 days before testing if advised by your doctor 

• Avoid collection during bleeding from haemorrhoids, menstruation, or urinary tract infections 

• Wait 3 days after any bleeding has completely stopped before collecting your sample 

• Don't strain excessively during bowel movements as this may cause bleeding 

• Follow kit instructions carefully for proper sample collection and storage 

• No dietary restrictions are needed beyond avoiding red meat 

Diseases that a Faecal Immunochemical Test Can Help Detect 

This screening test can help identify several important health conditions: 

• Colorectal cancer (bowel cancer) in early stages 

• Precancerous polyps in the colon or rectum 

• Inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis 

• Gastrointestinal bleeding disorders 

• Large adenomatous polyps that may become cancerous 

• Other conditions causing lower gastrointestinal bleeding 

Faecal Immunochemical Test/Packages that You Can Book With Metropolis Healthcare 

Related screening options are available to provide comprehensive gastrointestinal health assessment: 

Test/Package Name	Purpose/Highlights
Occult Blood Stool Test	Alternative stool screening for hidden blood detection
Fecal Immunochemical Test Quantitative	Screening test for occult (hidden) blood in stool, aids in early detection of colorectal cancer and gastrointestinal bleeding
Routine Examination Profile - Stool	Complete stool analysis including microscopy and bacterial assessment