## Fecal Immunochemical MED: A Comprehensive Guide for Patients
### Introduction
**The Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT)** is a medical diagnostic test that detects hidden blood in stool. It’s crucial for screening and diagnosing gastrointestinal conditions like colorectal cancer.
### Test Overview
FIT measures the presence of human hemoglobin in stool. Hemoglobin, in red blood cells, transports oxygen. Stool blood can indicate gastrointestinal bleeding.
### Conditions and Diseases Detected
FIT primarily detects:
– **Colorectal Cancer:** FIT screens for early-stage colorectal cancer, often symptom-free.
– **Colon Cancer:** FIT identifies growths or polyps in the colon that may develop into cancer.
– **Rectal Cancer:** FIT detects cancer in the rectum.
– **Gastrointestinal Bleeding:** FIT evaluates bleeding caused by hemorrhoids, fissures, ulcers, or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
– **Polyps:** FIT detects non-cancerous colon or rectal growths.
– **Diverticulosis:** FIT indicates inflammation or infection in colon pouches.
### Preparation Guidelines
Before a FIT:
– **Dietary Restrictions:** Avoid red meat, raw fish, horseradish, turnips for a few days before the test.
– **Medications:** Inform your doctor about medications; some may need to be stopped temporarily.
– **Menstrual Cycle:** Collect stool samples after your period.
### Procedure
The FIT procedure is simple:
1. Collect stool using the provided stick or spoon.
2. Transfer the sample to the collection device and seal it.
3. Return the kit to the laboratory or healthcare provider.
### Duration and Waiting Time
The procedure takes a few minutes. Results are typically available within days.
### Additional Tests
Based on FIT results, your healthcare provider may recommend:
– Colonoscopy
– Sigmoidoscopy
– Virtual colonoscopy
These tests provide detailed information about the condition and location of abnormalities.
### Conclusion
FIT is a valuable test for detecting stool blood, indicating gastrointestinal conditions. It’s non-invasive and can provide information for early diagnosis and treatment. Talk to your healthcare provider if you’re at risk for colorectal cancer or have concerns about gastrointestinal bleeding.
