What tests can detect colorectal cancer?
Fecal occult blood test: (FOBT) is used to find occult “hidden” blood in the stool if FOBT detects blood in the stool additional testing is needed to determine the cause of the bleeding. Certain foods and drugs can also influence test FOBT test results. For this test a kit with instructions is usually given that explains how to take the stool samples at home (usually 3 specimens). The kit is then returned to the doctors office or medical laboratory for testing. Sigmoidoscopy: A sigmoidoscope is a slender, flexible, hollow lighted tube which is inserted through the rectum into the lower part of the colon. Because of its limited length of around 2 feet only the lower half of the colon is visualized. Colonoscopy: A colonoscope is a long version of a sigmoidoscope is inserted through the rectum and allows visualization of the entire lining of the colon. Other tests which could be considered including barium enema with air contrast and “virtual” colonoscopy available at some centers.
