One of the most common stool tests, the fecal occult blood test can be used to diagnose many conditions that cause bleeding in the gastrointestinal system, including colorectal cancer or stomach cancer.
Cancers, and to a lesser extent, precancerous lesions, shed abnormal cells into the stool. Cancers and precancerous lesions (polyps) that are ulcerated or rubbed by passing stool also may shed blood into the stool, which can be identified by a hemoglobin assay.
The following are some other common disorders that can be diagnosed by stool testing:
• Parasitic diseases such as ascariasis, hookworm, strongyloidiasis, and whipworm
• Some bacterial diseases
• Toxins from bacteria such as Clostridium difficile (‘C. diff.’)
• Viruses such as rotavirus
• Lactose intolerance or the presence of an infection
• Steatorrhea
• Pancreatitis
Further Reading:
7 Health Assessments to Get Your Wellness on Track