Understanding High Fecal Occult Blood Test (FIT) Results
High fecal occult blood (FIT) levels can indicate hidden blood in the stool. Learn about causes, symptoms, and when to consult a doctor.
Check your result
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is below the typical adult range (0–10 µg Hb/g).
is within the typical adult range (0–10 µg Hb/g).
is above the typical adult range (0–10 µg Hb/g).
This number is very far from the usual range - check which unit your report uses.
A value this far outside the range is worth discussing with your doctor today.
What a low result usually means
The range printed on your own report comes first - it differs between laboratories. This is not a diagnosis.
See it next to the rest of your report - upload it for a free, private explanationFree. Sign up with your email - no password, we send you a code.Fecal occult blood testing (FIT) is an important tool in detecting hidden blood in the stool, which can be an early sign of bowel conditions, including cancer. A high FIT result can be concerning, but understanding what it means and the potential causes can help you take the right steps.
What is Fecal Occult Blood (FIT)?
Fecal occult blood testing (FIT) is a diagnostic test that measures the amount of hidden blood in a stool sample. Blood in the stool is not always visible, which is why this test is crucial. It is typically reported as positive or negative around a threshold of 10 µg Hb/g. A result above this threshold indicates the presence of blood that may require further investigation.
Why Does a High FIT Result Matter?
A high FIT result is significant because it can indicate the presence of blood in the stool that is not visible to the naked eye. This can be an early sign of bowel cancer or other gastrointestinal issues. Detecting blood early through this test can lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment, which is why it is a key part of bowel cancer screening programs.
Causes of High Fecal Occult Blood
There are several potential causes for a high FIT result:
- Gastrointestinal bleeding: This can be due to ulcers, hemorrhoids, or inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.
- Polyps or colorectal cancer: These growths can bleed and are often detected through screening.
- Certain medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and aspirin can cause gastrointestinal bleeding.
- Dietary factors: Unlike older guaiac stool tests, FIT detects only human blood, so red meat and other foods do not cause a positive result.
Symptoms Associated with High FIT Levels
While a high FIT result indicates hidden blood, other symptoms may accompany the conditions causing the bleeding, such as:
- Changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue, which may suggest anemia (low red blood cell count)
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a positive FIT result mean? A positive FIT result means that there is more than 10 µg Hb/g of hidden blood in your stool. This requires further investigation to determine the cause.
Can diet affect my FIT result? No. FIT detects only human blood, so red meat and other foods do not affect the result, unlike older guaiac stool tests. However, it's less of a concern with FIT compared to other stool tests.
How often should I have a FIT test? The frequency of FIT testing can depend on your age, risk factors, and local screening guidelines. It's best to discuss this with your healthcare provider.
When to see a doctor
If your FIT result is positive, it is important to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may recommend additional tests, such as a colonoscopy, to determine the cause. Additionally, if you experience symptoms like persistent changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, or abdominal pain, seek medical advice.
Decisions about your health should always be made in consultation with your healthcare provider.