Turnaround times
The quoted turnaround time is from sample receipt in the laboratory, to results authorisation in the Laboratory Information Management system. The times do not include transport of specimen to the laboratory or the administrative process to print and post/email reports. Service users must allow for transport and reporting time when ordering tests.
Clinical background:
NICE recommends the use of FiT in primary care to guide referral for suspected colorectal cancer in people without rectal bleeding, who have unexplained symptoms, but who do not meet the criteria for a suspected cancer pathway referral (NICE DG30). The faecal immunochemical test uses antibodies specific to human haemoglobin for detection of occult blood in a stool sample. FIT is non-invasive and is more sensitive than traditional guaiac-based faecal occult blood tests (FOBT).
Specimen container adult:
FiT collection device
Minimum volume adult:
smear
Sample stability:
Store in a dry, cool, dark place (2 to 8oC). Avoid any exposure to heat and light.
Reference ranges:
Cut-off = 10 µg Hb/g faeces