Common Questions About the Fecal Immunochemical Test | Pineville Pediatrics | Ballantyne Pediatricia

Common Questions About the Fecal Immunochemical Test

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FECAL TEST

For the detection of some pathologies, the fecal test checks for hidden blood in the stool. It consists of a sample or analyzing a small amount of stool. One of these conditions that can be detected with the Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) is colorectal cancer. This type of cancer starts in the colon or rectum that is part of the digestive system. Colorectal cancer begins with the formation of polyps, and, while not all polyps are cancerous, but some of them may turn into cancer.

In the case of children, a stool sample can provide pediatricians with valuable information about possible conditions that they are experiencing in the stomach or other parts of the gastrointestinal (GI) system.

How Can Your Child Prepare For a FIT?

First, the Fecal Immunochemical Test does not require a specific type of food or medication. The best way to prepare for this test is by ensuring hygienic conditions and avoid cleaning chemicals in the toilet (they can alter the test results). When it comes to female teens and young women, avoid stool tests during the menstrual period or active bleeding from hemorrhoids.

THE FECAL IMMUNOCHEMICAL TEST The test kit includes a brush and test card found, and you can return the sample and personal information to the lab. Most results are sent to you in a letter or by e-mail. If results determine an abnormal stool test, the doctor often prescribes a colonoscopy to further detect the reason for blood in your child’s stool.

It is important to note that the fecal immunochemical test cannot diagnose cancer. In this sense, additional tests are necessary to detect this disease early, when it is easier to treat. This is a minor surgical procedure, and the patient will receive a mild sedative first to help them relax. Then the doctor will use a thin tube to examine the inside of the colon.

HELPING YOUR CHILD TO COLLECT STOOL FOR THE FECAL IMMUNOCHEMICAL TEST

Collecting a stool does not hurt your child and is painless. In this sense, explain to your child that this test is harmless and, if your child is old enough might be able to collect the sample alone, tell them how to do this properly.

CALL YOUR TRUSTED PEDIATRICIAN

For further information, call your trusted professionals on Pineville pediatrics or your Ballantyne Pediatrician.

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