fecal occult test

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Explanation of "Fecal Occult Test"

Definition:
A "fecal occult test" is a medical test that you can do at home. In this test, you take small samples of your stool (poop) and check them for hidden (occult) blood. This test is important because it can help doctors find out if you have any problems in your colon, like colorectal cancer.

Usage Instructions:

1. Collect Samples: You will receive a test kit that usually includes a small stick or tool to collect stool samples.
2. Follow Instructions: Carefully follow the instructions provided with the kit to collect the samples.
3. Send to Lab: After collecting, you send the samples to a laboratory for testing.
4. Wait for Results: The lab will check for any traces of blood, and your doctor will discuss the results with you.

Example Sentence:

• "My doctor recommended that I do a fecal occult test to check for any signs of colorectal cancer."

Advanced Usage:

In medical discussions, you might hear terms like "screening" or "diagnostic." The fecal occult test is often a part of routine screening for adults over a certain age to catch any early signs of cancer.

Word Variants:

• Fecal (adjective): Related to feces (stool).
• Occult (adjective): Hidden or not easily seen.
• Test (noun): An examination or assessment.

Different Meanings:

• Fecal: This word generally refers to anything related to feces or bowel movements.
• Occult: In a different context, "occult" can refer to supernatural or mysterious things, but in this medical context, it strictly means hidden.

Synonyms:

• Stool test: A general term for tests that analyze stool for various health conditions.
• Fecal blood test: Another way to refer to a test that checks for blood in the stool.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While there are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "fecal occult test," here are some related phrases: - "Check for something": To look for evidence of something. - "Get a check-up": To have a general medical examination, which may include tests like the fecal occult test.

Conclusion:

The "fecal occult test" is an important tool for early detection of health issues, especially colorectal cancer.

Academic

Noun

1. a test performed at home in which you collect specimens of your stool that are tested for traces of blood; used to detect colorectal cancers

Synonyms

• faecal occult test
• stool test