Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT)

Immunology

---

Description

Faecal Immunochemical Testing ( FIT ) for faecal haemoglobin may be used as an investigation in the diagnosis of colorectal cancer in certain symptomatic patients. The current national guidance for FIT testing in low risk symptomatic patients is contained in NICE DG30 [1]. It recommends the use of FIT in primary care to guide referral for suspected colorectal cancer in patients without rectal bleeding, who have unexplained symptoms, but do not meet the criteria for a suspected cancer referral pathway. The purpose of FIT is to help identify patients who may have adverse bowel pathology who require colonoscopy or CT colonography. However, not all patients with colorectal cancer will have an abnormal FIT result and symptoms which indicate use of FIT may also reflect other types of cancer; so persisting symptoms would still require further management investigation. For symptomatic patients falling into the defined higher risk groups ( warranting 2ww referral in NICE guidelines ), FIT is not currently nationally recommended, and so referral under 2ww is appropriate.

---

Indications

For use in Primary Care to guide referral for suspected colorectal cancer in patients without rectal bleeding, who have unexplained symptoms, but do not meet the criteria for a suspected cancer referral pathway.

---

Sample Type

Faeces. Sample should be collected using the home sampling kit supplied by their GP.

---

Reference Range

Negative result is <10ug/g.

---

Turnaround Time

Within 3 days

---

Testing Frequency

Twice weekly

---

Please note: the above information is subject to change and we endeavour to keep this website up to date wherever necessary.