FOBT
Pronunciation: FOH-bit
Also written as: FOBT — fecal occult blood test
Non-invasive screening test that detects hidden blood in stool samples as an indicator of colorectal cancer.
Full Definition
FOBT (fecal occult blood test) is a non-invasive screening method used to detect microscopic amounts of blood in stool samples that are not visible to the naked eye. The presence of occult blood can indicate colorectal cancer or precancerous polyps that may bleed intermittently. There are two main types: guaiac-based FOBT (gFOBT) which detects heme, and fecal immunochemical test (FIT) which detects human hemoglobin specifically. FOBT serves as an important population-based screening tool due to its low cost and ease of use.
Usage
Usage note: Often confused with FIT (fecal immunochemical test), which is a specific type of FOBT. FOBT is the broader category.
In Context
- "Annual FOBT screening is recommended for patients who decline colonoscopy." — Clinical protocol
- "The patient's FOBT was positive, prompting referral for diagnostic colonoscopy." — Medical record