Fecal Occult Blood Test for Evaluation of Symptoms or for Diagnostic Testing. (12th February 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sokoro, AbdulRazaq; Singh, Harminder
• Is Part Of: American journal of gastroenterology. Volume 115:Number 5(2020)
• Page Start: 679
• Page End: 680
• Publication Date: 2020-02-12
• Subjects: Stomach -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Intestines -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Gastroenterology -- Periodicals; Gastrointestinal Diseases -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 616.33
• DOI: 10.14309/ajg.0000000000000560
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0002-9270

Abstract

Abstract: This editorial discusses the role of fecal occult blood test (FOBT) in a diagnostic workup. Utility of FOBT in colorectal cancer screening is well documented in multiple clinical trials, although there continues to be a debate (and ongoing trials) on its merit relative to other screening tests. Over the years, FOBT has seen growth in its application for assessment of symptomatic gastrointestinal disease without clear guidelines on its use in this setting. The work of Lee et al. in this edition of the journal synthesizes evidence on diagnostic utility of FOBT and provides additional rationale to stop using FOBTs for symptoms evaluation or for diagnostic testing.