Test library
iFOBT Test
The Occult Blood Fecal Test, also known as a FIT or iFOBT, checks a stool sample for hidden blood that is not visible to the eye. It is used to screen for conditions that can cause bleeding in the digestive tract.
Order Occult Blood Fecal Test
Order online and visit a local collection site, or choose an at-home kit where available. No referral and no insurance required.
Order Occult Blood Fecal Test- Typical turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Starting price
- From $180
- Results
- Confidential, online
Quick answer
The Occult Blood Fecal Test is a stool-based screen that looks for hidden blood, meaning blood that cannot be seen with the naked eye. It is also known as a fecal immunochemical test or iFOBT. This type of screening can help detect bleeding from the lower digestive tract that might otherwise go unnoticed, and results are reviewed by a healthcare provider.
What this test measures
Hidden blood in stool can come from several sources, including polyps, inflammation, or other conditions in the digestive tract. Because it is not visible, a laboratory test is needed to detect it. The fecal immunochemical test specifically detects human hemoglobin, which makes it more targeted than older chemical stool tests.
The sample is stool, collected by the person at home using the kit and instructions provided, then returned to the laboratory. No dietary restrictions are typically required for this type of test, unlike some older stool blood tests. The laboratory reports whether hemoglobin was detected and, in many cases, provides a quantitative value.
This test is often used as a screening option to check for sources of bleeding in the colon and rectum. It is a screening tool, not a diagnosis, and a positive result does not mean cancer is present. A healthcare provider decides whether follow-up with a colonoscopy or other evaluation is appropriate based on the result and the person's history.
- Fecal human hemoglobin
- Occult blood detection
- Quantitative fecal hemoglobin
- Sample adequacy check
- Fecal immunochemical test (FIT) result
- Hemoglobin concentration in stool
Why people order this test
- Screen for hidden bleeding in the digestive tract
- Follow up on unexplained iron deficiency anemia
- Investigate a change in bowel habits with a provider
- Monitor a known condition that can cause digestive bleeding
- Provide a non-invasive stool screening option
- Support colorectal screening discussions
How to prepare
Collection is done at home with the supplied kit, following the instructions for the number and handling of samples. Dietary or medication changes are usually not required for a fecal immunochemical test, but follow the specific instructions that come with the kit.
Understanding your results
Results are typically available within one to three business days after the sample reaches the laboratory. A negative result means no hemoglobin was detected above the test threshold, while a positive result means blood was detected and follow-up is usually discussed with a healthcare provider.
iFOBT Test by state
Alabama
iFOBT Test across Alabama.
Alaska
iFOBT Test across Alaska.
Arizona
iFOBT Test across Arizona.
Arkansas
iFOBT Test across Arkansas.
California
iFOBT Test across California.
Colorado
iFOBT Test across Colorado.
Connecticut
iFOBT Test across Connecticut.
Delaware
iFOBT Test across Delaware.
Florida
iFOBT Test across Florida.
Georgia
iFOBT Test across Georgia.
Hawaii
iFOBT Test across Hawaii.
Idaho
iFOBT Test across Idaho.
Related tests
12 Panel Drug Test (Drugs of Abuse Testing), Hair
Compare 12 Panel Drug Test (Drugs of Abuse Testing), Hair options and order online.
12 Panel Drug Testing
Compare 12 Panel Drug Testing options and order online.
7 Panel Drug Test (Drugs of Abuse Testing), Hair
Compare 7 Panel Drug Test (Drugs of Abuse Testing), Hair options and order online.
9 Panel Drug Test
Compare 9 Panel Drug Test options and order online.
9 Panel Drug Test (Drugs of Abuse Testing), Hair
Compare 9 Panel Drug Test (Drugs of Abuse Testing), Hair options and order online.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does an occult blood fecal test detect?
It detects hidden blood in stool, usually by measuring human hemoglobin. The blood is not visible to the eye, so a laboratory test is needed.
Is this the same as a FIT or iFOBT?
Yes. The fecal immunochemical test and immunochemical fecal occult blood test are names for the same kind of stool screening test.
How is the sample collected?
You collect the stool sample at home using the provided kit and return it to the laboratory according to the instructions.
Do I need to change my diet before the test?
For a fecal immunochemical test, dietary restrictions are usually not needed. Follow the specific instructions included with your kit.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result means blood was detected in the sample. It does not confirm a specific condition, and a healthcare provider typically recommends follow-up evaluation.
Do I need to fast?
Fasting is not required for this test.
Ready to get tested?
Order online and visit a collection site near you, or choose a mail-in kit. No referral and no insurance required.
Reviewed by the LabOrdering Editorial Team
Every page on this site is reviewed for clarity, sourcing, and accuracy. We update our library as testing options, collection networks, and accreditation standards change.