Fecall Immunochemical Test-Quantitative

What is a Faecal Immunochemical Test? 

A faecal immunochemical test (FIT) is a simple, non-invasive screening test that detects tiny amounts of hidden blood in your stool. This test uses specific antibodies that react only to human haemoglobin, making it highly accurate for detecting blood from the lower gastrointestinal tract. The test helps identify early signs of colorectal cancer, polyps, and other gastrointestinal conditions that may cause bleeding. 

What does the Faecal Immunochemical Test measure? 

The faecal immunochemical test measures several important aspects of your digestive health: 

• Detects hidden (occult) blood in stool that is not visible to the naked eye 

• Measures the presence of human haemoglobin using specific antibodies 

• Identifies potential bleeding from colorectal cancer or pre-cancerous polyps 

• Screens for gastrointestinal bleeding from various conditions 

• Provides quantitative results to assess the level of bleeding 

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 certain symptoms that could indicate gastrointestinal problems: 

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

• Rectal bleeding or visible blood in your stool 

• Unexplained abdominal pain, cramps, or discomfort 

• Constant fatigue or tiredness that could indicate anaemia 

• Unexplained weight loss 

• Feeling that your bowel doesn't empty completely 

• Persistent digestive discomfort or bloating 

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 a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps 

• People with inflammatory bowel disease like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis 

• Those who prefer a non-invasive alternative to colonoscopy for initial screening 

• Individuals experiencing symptoms of gastrointestinal bleeding 

• People at average health risk who want to monitor their digestive health 

Why is a Faecal Immunochemical Test done?  

The faecal immunochemical test is done primarily for early detection of colorectal cancer and pre-cancerous polyps. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates for colorectal cancer. 

Importance of a Faecal Immunochemical Test 

The faecal immunochemical test (quantitative) plays a crucial role in preventive healthcare and early disease detection. This test is clinically important because it provides a convenient, non-invasive way to screen for colorectal cancer, which is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. The test's ability to detect hidden blood helps identify problems before they become serious, allowing for timely medical intervention. 

The test aids diagnosis by serving as an important first step in colorectal cancer screening. A positive result guides your doctor to recommend further diagnostic procedures like colonoscopy, where polyps can be detected and removed before they become cancerous. This preventive approach significantly reduces the risk of developing advanced colorectal cancer and improves overall treatment success rates. 

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. 

1. Safe Home Sample Collection 
   Our trained professionals ensure timely collection of your sample while strictly following all safety and hygiene protocols. 

1. Sample Tracking Updates 
   Stay informed at every step. From collection to testing, you can track your sample directly through the Metropolis Healthcare website. 

1. Accurate Laboratory Testing 
   Your sample is processed at our NABL & CAP accredited laboratories, where expert technicians ensure accurate results. 

1. 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 faecal immunochemical tests. Our trained healthcare professionals ensure safe and hygienic sample collection at your home, following strict safety protocols. This service eliminates the need for you to visit a pathology lab, making the screening process more comfortable and accessible. With Metropolis Healthcare's extensive network of over 10,000 touchpoints across India, we ensure accurate results and timely reporting for your peace of mind. 

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

Reports are usually available after 8 hours once the sample reaches the 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 

The table below shows the reference ranges and what different levels mean for your health: 

Parameter	Reference Range	High Values May Indicate	Low/Normal Values May Indicate
FIT (Quantitative)	Normal: 0-50 ng/ml    Mild bleeding: 50-200 ng/ml    High bleeding: >200 ng/ml	Gastrointestinal bleeding, colorectal cancer, polyps, haemorrhoids, inflammatory bowel disease, peptic ulcers	No detectable bleeding, normal gastrointestinal health (though intermittent bleeding may still be missed)

Conditions that May Affect Faecal Immunochemical Test Accuracy 

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

• Certain medications, particularly blood thinners and anti-inflammatory drugs, may increase bleeding risk 

• Collection during menstruation, urinary tract infections, or haematuria can cause false-positive results 

• Haemorrhoids or anal fissures may contribute to positive results without indicating serious disease 

• Intermittent bleeding patterns may lead to false-negative results if collected during non-bleeding periods 

• Improper sample collection or storage can affect test accuracy 

• Upper gastrointestinal bleeding may be less detectable as blood degrades while passing through the digestive tract 

How is a Faecal Immunochemical Test Done? 

The faecal immunochemical test is performed using a simple home collection process followed by laboratory analysis: 

• You receive a special collection kit with detailed instructions from the laboratory 

• Collect a small stool sample using the provided collection device during a natural bowel movement 

• Place the sample in the leak-proof container provided in the kit 

• Label the container with your details and collection date 

• Laboratory technicians process your sample using immunoturbidimetry method 

• The test uses specific antibodies to detect human haemoglobin in the stool 

• Results are analysed and reported within 8 hours of sample receipt 

How Should You Prepare for a Faecal Immunochemical Test? 

Proper preparation helps ensure accurate test results and reduces the chance of false readings: 

• Avoid red meat for 3 days before sample collection as recommended 

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

• Wait for appropriate timing; avoid collection during menstruation, urinary tract infections, or active haematuria 

• Collect morning sample when possible for best results 

• Avoid straining during bowel movements as this may cause bleeding 

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

• No fasting required; you can eat and drink normally before the test 

Diseases that a Faecal Immunochemical Test Can Help Detect 

The faecal immunochemical test can help identify several important gastrointestinal health conditions: 

• Colorectal cancer in early stages 

• Pre-cancerous polyps in the colon or rectum 

• Inflammatory bowel disease including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis 

• Gastrointestinal bleeding from various sources 

• Peptic ulcers causing bleeding 

• Haemorrhoids with associated bleeding 

• Diverticulosis and diverticulitis 

• Other ulcerated lesions of the gastrointestinal tract 

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

The following related tests and packages are available to provide comprehensive gastrointestinal and cancer screening: 

Test/Package Name	Purpose/Highlights
Occult Blood Stool Test	Alternative method for detecting hidden blood in stool
Cancer Hotspot Panel	Comprehensive genetic screening for cancer-related mutations
IBD Profile Test	Specific testing for inflammatory bowel disease markers