IFOBT

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

IFOBT or Immunochemical Fecal Occult Blood Test is a type of fecal occult blood test that is used to detect blood in the feces. This test is used as a screening tool for colorectal cancer and can help detect the disease in its early stages, when treatment is most effective.

Overview[edit | edit source]

The IFOBT uses antibodies to detect the presence of human hemoglobin in the feces. Unlike the guaiac-based fecal occult blood test (gFOBT), the IFOBT does not require dietary restrictions and is less likely to produce false-positive results.

Procedure[edit | edit source]

The IFOBT is a simple test that can be done at home. The patient collects a small sample of feces using a special kit, which is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. If the test detects blood in the feces, further testing is needed to determine the cause.

Uses[edit | edit source]

The primary use of the IFOBT is to screen for colorectal cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends that adults aged 45 and older should get screened for colorectal cancer regularly. The IFOBT is one of several screening options available.

Limitations[edit | edit source]

While the IFOBT is a useful screening tool, it is not perfect. It can sometimes produce false-positive or false-negative results. A positive result does not necessarily mean that a person has cancer, and a negative result does not guarantee that a person does not have cancer.

See Also[edit | edit source]

IFOBT Resources
PubMed
Wikipedia
Medicine-stub.png
This article is a stub related to medicine. You can help WikiMD by expanding it!
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD