Why is this procedure done?
The lining of the large bowel sheds cells. These cells are found in the stool when you have a bowel movement. Your doctor may want to check for specific cells in your stool. To do this, your doctor may order a stool DNA test or sDNA. This test looks for cells from cancers and precancer polyps. These cells have changes in their DNA. This test may be done in a doctors office or at home. A special stool kit will be supplied to collect the stool. ‚
What will the results be?
- The doctor will look at the results of your test and what is normal. The doctor will know if you have cancer or precancer cells in your large bowel.
- Your doctor may order some other test, like a colonoscopy, to verify the findings.
- The doctor will talk with you about treatment.
What happens before the procedure?
- There are no special things to do before the test. You do not need to empty your bowel before the procedure.
- You may eat and drink normally before the test.
- Keep taking any drugs that you are taking.
What happens during the procedure?
- Your doctor will give you a kit to collect the stool sample. You may have a special container to use to collect the stool.
- Put the stool in the container.
What happens after the procedure?
- If this test was done using a home kit, send the stool sample right away to your doctor or to the lab after the collection. Follow the directions on the kit.
- Ask your doctor when the results will be available. Results are normally available after 3 to 6 weeks.
What care is needed at home?
You may do your everyday activities when you get back home. ‚
What follow-up care is needed?
- Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits.
- The doctor may ask for other tests, like a colonoscopy, to confirm your condition.
Where can I learn more?
American Cancer Society ‚
http://www.cancer.org/Cancer/ColonandRectumCancer/DetailedGuide/colorectal-cancer-detection ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚