A stool test is one where fecal matter is collected for analysis to diagnose the presence or absence of a medical condition.

Fecal occult blood test

One of the most common stool tests, the Fecal occult blood test can be used to diagnose many conditions that cause in bleeding in the gastrointestinal system including Colorectal cancer or Stomach cancer.^[1]

Detecting parasitic organisms

Parasitic diseases such as Ascariasis, Hookworm, Strongyloidiasis and Whipworm can be diagnosed by examining stools for the presence of worm larvae or eggs. Other diseases such as Typhoid fever and Irritable bowel syndrome can be found by performing a stool culture.^[2]

Chemical tests

A fecal pH test may be used determine lactose intolerance or the presence of an infection.^[3] Steatorrhea can be diagnosed using a Fecal fat test that checks for the malabsorption of fat.^[4]

See also

• Rectal examination

References

1. ^ Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT).
2. ^ Stool culture.
3. ^ Stool Acidity Test - MedicineNet.com.
4. ^ MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Fecal fat.