What is the purpose of this test?
A Fecal Fat Stool Test, Qualitative, checks for fat in your stool to help diagnose problems with digestion and absorption of fats. When your body can't properly digest or absorb fats from the food you eat, extra fat can end up in your stool. This test is used to see if there is too much fat in your stool, which can indicate issues like pancreatic problems, celiac disease, or other digestive disorders.
During the test, you collect a stool sample and send it to the lab. The lab then examines the sample to find out if it contains an unusually high amount of fat. If the test shows a lot of fat, it can help your doctor figure out why your body isn't absorbing fats properly and decide on the best treatment or further tests to address the problem.
Who should get this test?
The Fecal Fat Stool Test, Qualitative, would be beneficial to:
- Individuals with Digestive Issues
- Patients with Unexplained Weight Loss
- People with Chronic Diarrhea
- Patients with Suspected Pancreatic Disorders
- Individuals with Suspected Celiac Disease
- Patients with Fatigue or Weakness
- Individuals with Known Malabsorption Conditions
- People Undergoing Evaluation for Digestive Disorders
When should I order a Fecal Fat Stool Test, Qualitative?
Individuals should consider ordering a Fecal Fat Stool Test, Qualitative, if they have symptoms or conditions that suggest problems with fat digestion and absorption. This test helps diagnose issues related to malabsorption of fats in the digestive system. Symptoms to consider:
- Chronic Diarrhea
- Abdominal Pain
- Bloating
- Unexplained Weight Loss
- Fatigue or Weakness
- Frequent Loose Stools
- Nausea
- History of Digestive Disorders
If you experience these symptoms or have a condition that affects fat digestion, this test can help determine if there is an issue with fat absorption and guide appropriate treatment.
Sample Report
Test Code(s):
3967, 001677
Also Known As:
Fatty Acid, Stool; Neutral Fat, Stool; Qualitative Fat
Preparation:
Before collecting the specimen, bring the lab order to the lab to receive the appropriate specimen container. No special preparation is required for the test. It is important to avoid using castor oil, mineral oil, suppositories, or barium prior to specimen collection, as these substances can interfere with test results. Additionally, fat substitutes such as Olestra should be avoided, as they may affect the outcome of the test.
Test Results:
2-6 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
