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Fecal occult blood testing in hospitalized patients with upper gastrointestinal bleeding
The “Things We Do for No Reason” (TWDFNR) series reviews practices which have become common parts of hospital care but which may provide little value to our patients. Practices reviewed in the TWDFNR series do not represent “black and white” conclusions or clinical practice standards, but are meant as a starting place for research and active discussions among hospitalists and patients. We invite you to be part of that discussion. https://www.choosingwisely.org/
CASE REPORT
A 47-year-old man with a history of alcohol abuse, cirrhosis, and grade II esophageal varices is admitted for treatment of alcohol withdrawal. He reports having some dark-colored stools a week prior to admission, but his stools since then have been normal in color. A repeat hemoglobin is stable, but a fecal occult blood test is positive. What should be done next?
BACKGROUND
The US Preventive Services Task Force and the American College of Gastroenterology recommend fecal occult blood testing (FOBT) as one method for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening in average risk populations.1,2 FOBTs can be divided into guaiac-based tests (gFOBTs), which measure heme, and fecal immunochemical tests (FITs), which measure the globin portion of human hemoglobin (Hb). In gFOBTs, heme present in the sample reacts with a hydrogen peroxide developer to oxidize guaiac, producing a blue color.3 Screening gFOBT was shown to decrease mortality from CRC in several landmark studies in the 1990s, but its sensitivity is poor, ranging from 30% to 57%.4 Because the guaiac-induced color change is determined visually, interpretation of gFOBT results are subject to error. In a survey of 173 medical providers, 12% did not accurately interpret gFOBT results.5 In light of these limitations, recent guidelines support the use of newer FITs for CRC screening. FITs utilize antibodies directed against the human globin moiety and demonstrate an increased sensitivity when compared with gFOBTs (by 32% to 62%) for detecting neoplasm.6 While evidence supports the use of FOBTs in CRC screening, providers use these tests for nonvalidated purposes, including the evaluation of suspected acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB).
WHY YOU MIGHT THINK FOBT is HELPFUL FOR EVALUATION OF INPATIENTS WITH SUSPECTED ACUTE UGIB
Given the incidence (up to 100 per 100,000 persons per year) and high mortality of UGIB (up to 20,000 deaths annually in the United States),7 there would ideally be a noninvasive test available to help guide management. In evaluating a patient with possible acute UGIB, FOBT affords several theoretical benefits. FOBT is quick, inexpensive, and can be performed by any health professional. In contrast, the primary diagnostic procedure for UGIB, esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), carries procedural and sedation-related risks, can be costly and time-consuming, and requires consultation from subspecialty providers.
WHY FOBT is NOT HELPFUL FOR EVALUATION OF INPATIENTS WITH SUSPECTED ACUTE UGIB
While FOBTs are valuable as screening tests for CRC in the outpatient setting, their use has been extended to diagnose gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding in the inpatient setting without supporting data. As is true for many screening tests, FOBT is associated with a high incidence of false-positive results, or type I errors.8,9 False-positive FOBT results can occur from ingested blood via extra-intestinal sources (eg, epistaxis, gingival bleeding, pharyngitis, hemoptysis), or in medical conditions with intestinal mucosal inflammation (eg, esophagitis, gastritis, inflammatory bowel disease). False-positive results can also be due to clinically insignificant GI blood loss induced by medications (eg, aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), alcohol,10 or by ingestion of meats, fruits, or vegetables containing peroxidase (eg, broccoli, cauliflower).11
Outpatients using FOBTs for cancer screening are advised to hold medications and avoid foods that may lead to false-positive results. Despite institution of these restrictions, false-positive rates are still high, as 37% to 53% of CRC screening patients with a positive FOBT have a subsequent negative colonoscopy, and only 11% to 21% of these patients have a source of bleeding identified on subsequent EGD.12 False-positive results might be even higher in the inpatient setting, where patients typically do not adhere to these restrictions. A review of FOBTs performed in 3 acute care hospitals revealed that 65% of patients tested were on at least one medication that impacted the validity of gFOBT results, and 98% had no evidence of dietary restriction prior to testing.13
The use of FOBTs (particularly FITs) is also subject to false-negative results, or type II errors. While FITs have increased specificity for lower GI bleeding, their ability to detect UGIB is limited, because most Hb is digested in the small intestine and not present in rectal stool.14 In a study of more than 2,700 patients, FIT results were not correlated with the presence of upper GI pathology.15 False-negative results are less common with gFOBTs, although these may occur with low volume, slow or intermittent bleeding,16 or with ingestion of substances that inhibit oxidation, such as vitamin C.17
Beyond these test limitations, studies suggest that the majority of inpatient FOBT results do not impact immediate medical decision-making or management. In one study, only 34% of hospitalized patients with a positive FOBT underwent further GI studies, with the majority of those patients (60%) receiving endoscopy before the results of the FOBT were known.18 In another study of 201 FOBTs performed on hospitalized patients, those with negative results underwent further GI evaluation at a higher rate than those with positive results (41% vs 38%).8 This aligns with a study that revealed the majority of patients suspected of having a GI bleed underwent endoscopic evaluation regardless of the FOBT result.9
WHEN MIGHT FOBT BE HELPFUL?
FOBT currently has a role in CRC screening and
WHAT WE SHOULD DO INSTEAD
A careful history, physical examination, and visual inspection of the stool remain the foundation of establishing UGIB as the etiology of anemia. Observed melena (either by passed stool or a rectal examination) has a likelihood ratio (LR) of 25 for UGIB; a patient’s self-report of stools that sounds melenic (black or tarry) has an LR of 5-6.19 An upper GI source may be further supported by an elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN) to creatinine ratio, as blood is absorbed through the small bowel and patients may have concomitant decreased renal perfusion. A BUN to creatinine ratio of >30 is associated with a positive LR (LR+) of 7.5 for UGIB.19 Recall that the higher the LR+, and the lower the negative LR (LR-), the better the test is at ruling in and out the diagnosis, respectively. LR+ of 2–10 and LR– of 0.1–0.5 represent a modestly helpful diagnostic test, whereas LR+ >10 and LR- <0.1 are considered robust. These are generalizations only, as value of LR+/LR- depends on pretest probability.
Although Gastroccult23 may be considered for the detection of occult blood in gastric juice, its package insert states: “As with any occult blood test, results with the Gastroccult test cannot be considered conclusive evidence of the presence or absence of upper gastrointestinal bleeding or pathology.” As with any diagnostic evaluation, we would only recommend this test if it would change management.
- FOBT should not be performed to diagnose UGIB.
- When there is clinical suspicion of acute GI bleeding, the best diagnostic tools are a good history, physical examination, and visual inspection of the stool by the clinician to determine the presence of hematochezia or melena.
- Deferring FOBT to the ambulatory setting may improve test performance characteristics.
CONCLUSION
FOBT is validated as an outpatient colon cancer screening tool in asymptomatic patients, not for inpatient evaluation of acute GIB. Given the poor positive predictive value for a positive FOBT in an acute GIB scenario, the potential risk for unnecessary treatments or procedures is real. Conversely, a negative FOBT (particularly FIT) does not rule out GI bleeding and risks a false sense of security that may result in under-treatment. In most scenarios in which FOBT is performed, clinicians can make decisions based on a composite of history, physical exam, visual inspection of the stool, and laboratory investigation. Until further research substantiates the utility of FOBT for this purpose, we would recommend against the routine use of FOBT for evaluating UGIB in hospitalized patients.
Acknowledgment
Disclosure: The authors do not have any relevant financial disclosures to report. The views expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the position or policy of the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Do you think this is a low-value practice? Is this truly a “Thing We Do for No Reason”? Let us know what you do in your practice and propose ideas for other “Things We Do for No Reason” topics. Please join in the conversation online at Twitter (#TWDFNR)/Facebook and don’t forget to “Like It” on Facebook or retweet it on Twitter. We invite you to propose ideas for other “Things We Do for No Reason” topics by [email protected].
1. U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Screening for colorectal cancer: recommendation and rationale. Ann Intern Med. 2002;137:129-131. PubMed
2. Lieberman DA, Rex DK, Winawer SJ, Giardiello FM, Johnson DA, Levin TR. Guidelines for colonoscopy surveillance after screening and polypectomy: A consensus update by the US Multi-Society Task Force on Colorectal Cancer. Gastroenterology. 2012;143(3):844-857. PubMed
3. Carroll MRR, Seaman HE, Halloran HP. Tests and investigations for colorectal cancer screening. Clinical Biochemistry. 2014;47:921-939. PubMed
4. Tinmouth J, Lansdorp-Vogelaar I, Allison JE. Faecal immunochemical tests versus guaiac faecal occult blood tests: what clinicians and colorectal cancer screening programme organisers need to know. Gut. 2015;64(8):1327-1337. PubMed
5. Selinger RR, et al. Failure of health care professionals to interpret fecal occult blood tests accurately. Am J Med. 2003;114(1):64-67. PubMed
6. Rex DK, Johnson DA, Anderson JC, Schoenfeld PS, Burke CA, Inadomi JM. American College of Gastroenterology Guidelines for Colorectal Cancer Screening 2008. Am J Gastroenterol. 2009;104(3):739-750. PubMed
7. El-Tawil AM. Trends on gastrointestinal bleeding and mortality: Where are we standing? World J Gastroenterol. 2012;18(11):1154. PubMed
8. van Rijn AF, Stroobants AK, Deutekom M, et al. Inappropriate use of the faecal occult blood test in a university hospital in the Netherlands. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2012;24(11):1266-1269. PubMed
9. Narula N, Ulic D, Al-Dabbagh R, et al. Fecal occult blood testing as a diagnostic test in symptomatic patients is not useful: a retrospective chart review. Can J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2014;28(8):421-426. PubMed
10. Fleming, JL, Ahlquist DA, McGill DB, Zinsmeister AR, Ellefson RD, Schwartz S. Influence of aspirin and ethanol on fecal blood levels as determined by using the HemoQuant assay. Mayo Clin Proc. 1987;62(3):159-163. PubMed
11. Macrae FA, St John DJB. Relationship between patterns of bleeding and Hemoccult sensitivity in patients with colorectal cancers or adenomas. Gastroenterology. 1982;82:891-898. PubMed
12. Allard J, et al. Gastroscopy following a positive fecal occult blood test and negative colonoscopy: systematic review and guideline. Can J Gastroenterol. 2010;24(2):113-120. PubMed
13. Friedman A, Chan A, Chin LC, Deen A, Hammerschlag G, Lee M, et al. Use and abuse of faecal occult blood tests in an acute hospital inpatient setting. Intern Med J. 2010;40(2):107-111. PubMed
14. Allison JE, et al. Screening for colorectal neoplasms with new fecal occult blood tests: update on performance characteristics. J Natl Cancer Inst. 2007;99(19):1462-1470. PubMed
15. Chiang TH, Lee YC, Tu CH, Chiu HM, Wu MS. Performance of the immunochemical fecal occult blood test in predicting lesions in the lower gastrointestinal tract. CMAJ. 2011;183(13):1474-1481. PubMed
16. Bassett ML, Goulston KJ. False positive and negative hemoccult reactions on a normal diet and effect of diet restriction. Aust N Z J Med. 1980;10(1):1-4. PubMed
17. Jaffe, RM, Kasten B, Young DS, MacLowry JD. False-negative stool occult blood tests caused by ingestion of ascorbic acid (vitamin C). Ann Intern Med. 1975;83(6):824-826. PubMed
18. Ip S, Sokoro AAH, Kaita L, Ruiz C, McIntyre E, Singh H. Use of fecal occult blood testing in hospitalized patients: results of an audit. Can J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2014;28(9):489-494. PubMed
19. Srygley FD, Gerardo CJ, Trun T, Fisher DA. Does this patient have a severe upper gastrointestinal bleed? JAMA. 2012;307(10):1072-1079. PubMed
20. Logue KA. Data Request - FOBT. June 2016. Regions Hospital, HealthPartners Laboratory, Saint Paul, Minnesota.
21. Population Clock. http://www.census.gov/popclock/. Accessed July 8, 2016.
22. Mosadeghi S, Ren H, Yen I, Bhuket T. Evaluation of fecal occult blood testing in the acute hospital setting. Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. 2015;81(5).
23. Gastroccult [package insert]. Beckman Coulter, Brea, CA. https://www.beckmancoulter.com/wsrportal/wsr/diagnostics/clinical-products/rapid-diagnostics/gas troccult/index.htm. Accessed March 18, 2008.
The “Things We Do for No Reason” (TWDFNR) series reviews practices which have become common parts of hospital care but which may provide little value to our patients. Practices reviewed in the TWDFNR series do not represent “black and white” conclusions or clinical practice standards, but are meant as a starting place for research and active discussions among hospitalists and patients. We invite you to be part of that discussion. https://www.choosingwisely.org/
CASE REPORT
A 47-year-old man with a history of alcohol abuse, cirrhosis, and grade II esophageal varices is admitted for treatment of alcohol withdrawal. He reports having some dark-colored stools a week prior to admission, but his stools since then have been normal in color. A repeat hemoglobin is stable, but a fecal occult blood test is positive. What should be done next?
BACKGROUND
The US Preventive Services Task Force and the American College of Gastroenterology recommend fecal occult blood testing (FOBT) as one method for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening in average risk populations.1,2 FOBTs can be divided into guaiac-based tests (gFOBTs), which measure heme, and fecal immunochemical tests (FITs), which measure the globin portion of human hemoglobin (Hb). In gFOBTs, heme present in the sample reacts with a hydrogen peroxide developer to oxidize guaiac, producing a blue color.3 Screening gFOBT was shown to decrease mortality from CRC in several landmark studies in the 1990s, but its sensitivity is poor, ranging from 30% to 57%.4 Because the guaiac-induced color change is determined visually, interpretation of gFOBT results are subject to error. In a survey of 173 medical providers, 12% did not accurately interpret gFOBT results.5 In light of these limitations, recent guidelines support the use of newer FITs for CRC screening. FITs utilize antibodies directed against the human globin moiety and demonstrate an increased sensitivity when compared with gFOBTs (by 32% to 62%) for detecting neoplasm.6 While evidence supports the use of FOBTs in CRC screening, providers use these tests for nonvalidated purposes, including the evaluation of suspected acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB).
WHY YOU MIGHT THINK FOBT is HELPFUL FOR EVALUATION OF INPATIENTS WITH SUSPECTED ACUTE UGIB
Given the incidence (up to 100 per 100,000 persons per year) and high mortality of UGIB (up to 20,000 deaths annually in the United States),7 there would ideally be a noninvasive test available to help guide management. In evaluating a patient with possible acute UGIB, FOBT affords several theoretical benefits. FOBT is quick, inexpensive, and can be performed by any health professional. In contrast, the primary diagnostic procedure for UGIB, esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), carries procedural and sedation-related risks, can be costly and time-consuming, and requires consultation from subspecialty providers.
WHY FOBT is NOT HELPFUL FOR EVALUATION OF INPATIENTS WITH SUSPECTED ACUTE UGIB
While FOBTs are valuable as screening tests for CRC in the outpatient setting, their use has been extended to diagnose gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding in the inpatient setting without supporting data. As is true for many screening tests, FOBT is associated with a high incidence of false-positive results, or type I errors.8,9 False-positive FOBT results can occur from ingested blood via extra-intestinal sources (eg, epistaxis, gingival bleeding, pharyngitis, hemoptysis), or in medical conditions with intestinal mucosal inflammation (eg, esophagitis, gastritis, inflammatory bowel disease). False-positive results can also be due to clinically insignificant GI blood loss induced by medications (eg, aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), alcohol,10 or by ingestion of meats, fruits, or vegetables containing peroxidase (eg, broccoli, cauliflower).11
Outpatients using FOBTs for cancer screening are advised to hold medications and avoid foods that may lead to false-positive results. Despite institution of these restrictions, false-positive rates are still high, as 37% to 53% of CRC screening patients with a positive FOBT have a subsequent negative colonoscopy, and only 11% to 21% of these patients have a source of bleeding identified on subsequent EGD.12 False-positive results might be even higher in the inpatient setting, where patients typically do not adhere to these restrictions. A review of FOBTs performed in 3 acute care hospitals revealed that 65% of patients tested were on at least one medication that impacted the validity of gFOBT results, and 98% had no evidence of dietary restriction prior to testing.13
The use of FOBTs (particularly FITs) is also subject to false-negative results, or type II errors. While FITs have increased specificity for lower GI bleeding, their ability to detect UGIB is limited, because most Hb is digested in the small intestine and not present in rectal stool.14 In a study of more than 2,700 patients, FIT results were not correlated with the presence of upper GI pathology.15 False-negative results are less common with gFOBTs, although these may occur with low volume, slow or intermittent bleeding,16 or with ingestion of substances that inhibit oxidation, such as vitamin C.17
Beyond these test limitations, studies suggest that the majority of inpatient FOBT results do not impact immediate medical decision-making or management. In one study, only 34% of hospitalized patients with a positive FOBT underwent further GI studies, with the majority of those patients (60%) receiving endoscopy before the results of the FOBT were known.18 In another study of 201 FOBTs performed on hospitalized patients, those with negative results underwent further GI evaluation at a higher rate than those with positive results (41% vs 38%).8 This aligns with a study that revealed the majority of patients suspected of having a GI bleed underwent endoscopic evaluation regardless of the FOBT result.9
WHEN MIGHT FOBT BE HELPFUL?
FOBT currently has a role in CRC screening and
WHAT WE SHOULD DO INSTEAD
A careful history, physical examination, and visual inspection of the stool remain the foundation of establishing UGIB as the etiology of anemia. Observed melena (either by passed stool or a rectal examination) has a likelihood ratio (LR) of 25 for UGIB; a patient’s self-report of stools that sounds melenic (black or tarry) has an LR of 5-6.19 An upper GI source may be further supported by an elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN) to creatinine ratio, as blood is absorbed through the small bowel and patients may have concomitant decreased renal perfusion. A BUN to creatinine ratio of >30 is associated with a positive LR (LR+) of 7.5 for UGIB.19 Recall that the higher the LR+, and the lower the negative LR (LR-), the better the test is at ruling in and out the diagnosis, respectively. LR+ of 2–10 and LR– of 0.1–0.5 represent a modestly helpful diagnostic test, whereas LR+ >10 and LR- <0.1 are considered robust. These are generalizations only, as value of LR+/LR- depends on pretest probability.
Although Gastroccult23 may be considered for the detection of occult blood in gastric juice, its package insert states: “As with any occult blood test, results with the Gastroccult test cannot be considered conclusive evidence of the presence or absence of upper gastrointestinal bleeding or pathology.” As with any diagnostic evaluation, we would only recommend this test if it would change management.
- FOBT should not be performed to diagnose UGIB.
- When there is clinical suspicion of acute GI bleeding, the best diagnostic tools are a good history, physical examination, and visual inspection of the stool by the clinician to determine the presence of hematochezia or melena.
- Deferring FOBT to the ambulatory setting may improve test performance characteristics.
CONCLUSION
FOBT is validated as an outpatient colon cancer screening tool in asymptomatic patients, not for inpatient evaluation of acute GIB. Given the poor positive predictive value for a positive FOBT in an acute GIB scenario, the potential risk for unnecessary treatments or procedures is real. Conversely, a negative FOBT (particularly FIT) does not rule out GI bleeding and risks a false sense of security that may result in under-treatment. In most scenarios in which FOBT is performed, clinicians can make decisions based on a composite of history, physical exam, visual inspection of the stool, and laboratory investigation. Until further research substantiates the utility of FOBT for this purpose, we would recommend against the routine use of FOBT for evaluating UGIB in hospitalized patients.
Acknowledgment
Disclosure: The authors do not have any relevant financial disclosures to report. The views expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the position or policy of the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Do you think this is a low-value practice? Is this truly a “Thing We Do for No Reason”? Let us know what you do in your practice and propose ideas for other “Things We Do for No Reason” topics. Please join in the conversation online at Twitter (#TWDFNR)/Facebook and don’t forget to “Like It” on Facebook or retweet it on Twitter. We invite you to propose ideas for other “Things We Do for No Reason” topics by [email protected].
The “Things We Do for No Reason” (TWDFNR) series reviews practices which have become common parts of hospital care but which may provide little value to our patients. Practices reviewed in the TWDFNR series do not represent “black and white” conclusions or clinical practice standards, but are meant as a starting place for research and active discussions among hospitalists and patients. We invite you to be part of that discussion. https://www.choosingwisely.org/
CASE REPORT
A 47-year-old man with a history of alcohol abuse, cirrhosis, and grade II esophageal varices is admitted for treatment of alcohol withdrawal. He reports having some dark-colored stools a week prior to admission, but his stools since then have been normal in color. A repeat hemoglobin is stable, but a fecal occult blood test is positive. What should be done next?
BACKGROUND
The US Preventive Services Task Force and the American College of Gastroenterology recommend fecal occult blood testing (FOBT) as one method for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening in average risk populations.1,2 FOBTs can be divided into guaiac-based tests (gFOBTs), which measure heme, and fecal immunochemical tests (FITs), which measure the globin portion of human hemoglobin (Hb). In gFOBTs, heme present in the sample reacts with a hydrogen peroxide developer to oxidize guaiac, producing a blue color.3 Screening gFOBT was shown to decrease mortality from CRC in several landmark studies in the 1990s, but its sensitivity is poor, ranging from 30% to 57%.4 Because the guaiac-induced color change is determined visually, interpretation of gFOBT results are subject to error. In a survey of 173 medical providers, 12% did not accurately interpret gFOBT results.5 In light of these limitations, recent guidelines support the use of newer FITs for CRC screening. FITs utilize antibodies directed against the human globin moiety and demonstrate an increased sensitivity when compared with gFOBTs (by 32% to 62%) for detecting neoplasm.6 While evidence supports the use of FOBTs in CRC screening, providers use these tests for nonvalidated purposes, including the evaluation of suspected acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB).
WHY YOU MIGHT THINK FOBT is HELPFUL FOR EVALUATION OF INPATIENTS WITH SUSPECTED ACUTE UGIB
Given the incidence (up to 100 per 100,000 persons per year) and high mortality of UGIB (up to 20,000 deaths annually in the United States),7 there would ideally be a noninvasive test available to help guide management. In evaluating a patient with possible acute UGIB, FOBT affords several theoretical benefits. FOBT is quick, inexpensive, and can be performed by any health professional. In contrast, the primary diagnostic procedure for UGIB, esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), carries procedural and sedation-related risks, can be costly and time-consuming, and requires consultation from subspecialty providers.
WHY FOBT is NOT HELPFUL FOR EVALUATION OF INPATIENTS WITH SUSPECTED ACUTE UGIB
While FOBTs are valuable as screening tests for CRC in the outpatient setting, their use has been extended to diagnose gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding in the inpatient setting without supporting data. As is true for many screening tests, FOBT is associated with a high incidence of false-positive results, or type I errors.8,9 False-positive FOBT results can occur from ingested blood via extra-intestinal sources (eg, epistaxis, gingival bleeding, pharyngitis, hemoptysis), or in medical conditions with intestinal mucosal inflammation (eg, esophagitis, gastritis, inflammatory bowel disease). False-positive results can also be due to clinically insignificant GI blood loss induced by medications (eg, aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), alcohol,10 or by ingestion of meats, fruits, or vegetables containing peroxidase (eg, broccoli, cauliflower).11
Outpatients using FOBTs for cancer screening are advised to hold medications and avoid foods that may lead to false-positive results. Despite institution of these restrictions, false-positive rates are still high, as 37% to 53% of CRC screening patients with a positive FOBT have a subsequent negative colonoscopy, and only 11% to 21% of these patients have a source of bleeding identified on subsequent EGD.12 False-positive results might be even higher in the inpatient setting, where patients typically do not adhere to these restrictions. A review of FOBTs performed in 3 acute care hospitals revealed that 65% of patients tested were on at least one medication that impacted the validity of gFOBT results, and 98% had no evidence of dietary restriction prior to testing.13
The use of FOBTs (particularly FITs) is also subject to false-negative results, or type II errors. While FITs have increased specificity for lower GI bleeding, their ability to detect UGIB is limited, because most Hb is digested in the small intestine and not present in rectal stool.14 In a study of more than 2,700 patients, FIT results were not correlated with the presence of upper GI pathology.15 False-negative results are less common with gFOBTs, although these may occur with low volume, slow or intermittent bleeding,16 or with ingestion of substances that inhibit oxidation, such as vitamin C.17
Beyond these test limitations, studies suggest that the majority of inpatient FOBT results do not impact immediate medical decision-making or management. In one study, only 34% of hospitalized patients with a positive FOBT underwent further GI studies, with the majority of those patients (60%) receiving endoscopy before the results of the FOBT were known.18 In another study of 201 FOBTs performed on hospitalized patients, those with negative results underwent further GI evaluation at a higher rate than those with positive results (41% vs 38%).8 This aligns with a study that revealed the majority of patients suspected of having a GI bleed underwent endoscopic evaluation regardless of the FOBT result.9
WHEN MIGHT FOBT BE HELPFUL?
FOBT currently has a role in CRC screening and
WHAT WE SHOULD DO INSTEAD
A careful history, physical examination, and visual inspection of the stool remain the foundation of establishing UGIB as the etiology of anemia. Observed melena (either by passed stool or a rectal examination) has a likelihood ratio (LR) of 25 for UGIB; a patient’s self-report of stools that sounds melenic (black or tarry) has an LR of 5-6.19 An upper GI source may be further supported by an elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN) to creatinine ratio, as blood is absorbed through the small bowel and patients may have concomitant decreased renal perfusion. A BUN to creatinine ratio of >30 is associated with a positive LR (LR+) of 7.5 for UGIB.19 Recall that the higher the LR+, and the lower the negative LR (LR-), the better the test is at ruling in and out the diagnosis, respectively. LR+ of 2–10 and LR– of 0.1–0.5 represent a modestly helpful diagnostic test, whereas LR+ >10 and LR- <0.1 are considered robust. These are generalizations only, as value of LR+/LR- depends on pretest probability.
Although Gastroccult23 may be considered for the detection of occult blood in gastric juice, its package insert states: “As with any occult blood test, results with the Gastroccult test cannot be considered conclusive evidence of the presence or absence of upper gastrointestinal bleeding or pathology.” As with any diagnostic evaluation, we would only recommend this test if it would change management.
- FOBT should not be performed to diagnose UGIB.
- When there is clinical suspicion of acute GI bleeding, the best diagnostic tools are a good history, physical examination, and visual inspection of the stool by the clinician to determine the presence of hematochezia or melena.
- Deferring FOBT to the ambulatory setting may improve test performance characteristics.
CONCLUSION
FOBT is validated as an outpatient colon cancer screening tool in asymptomatic patients, not for inpatient evaluation of acute GIB. Given the poor positive predictive value for a positive FOBT in an acute GIB scenario, the potential risk for unnecessary treatments or procedures is real. Conversely, a negative FOBT (particularly FIT) does not rule out GI bleeding and risks a false sense of security that may result in under-treatment. In most scenarios in which FOBT is performed, clinicians can make decisions based on a composite of history, physical exam, visual inspection of the stool, and laboratory investigation. Until further research substantiates the utility of FOBT for this purpose, we would recommend against the routine use of FOBT for evaluating UGIB in hospitalized patients.
Acknowledgment
Disclosure: The authors do not have any relevant financial disclosures to report. The views expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the position or policy of the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Do you think this is a low-value practice? Is this truly a “Thing We Do for No Reason”? Let us know what you do in your practice and propose ideas for other “Things We Do for No Reason” topics. Please join in the conversation online at Twitter (#TWDFNR)/Facebook and don’t forget to “Like It” on Facebook or retweet it on Twitter. We invite you to propose ideas for other “Things We Do for No Reason” topics by [email protected].
1. U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Screening for colorectal cancer: recommendation and rationale. Ann Intern Med. 2002;137:129-131. PubMed
2. Lieberman DA, Rex DK, Winawer SJ, Giardiello FM, Johnson DA, Levin TR. Guidelines for colonoscopy surveillance after screening and polypectomy: A consensus update by the US Multi-Society Task Force on Colorectal Cancer. Gastroenterology. 2012;143(3):844-857. PubMed
3. Carroll MRR, Seaman HE, Halloran HP. Tests and investigations for colorectal cancer screening. Clinical Biochemistry. 2014;47:921-939. PubMed
4. Tinmouth J, Lansdorp-Vogelaar I, Allison JE. Faecal immunochemical tests versus guaiac faecal occult blood tests: what clinicians and colorectal cancer screening programme organisers need to know. Gut. 2015;64(8):1327-1337. PubMed
5. Selinger RR, et al. Failure of health care professionals to interpret fecal occult blood tests accurately. Am J Med. 2003;114(1):64-67. PubMed
6. Rex DK, Johnson DA, Anderson JC, Schoenfeld PS, Burke CA, Inadomi JM. American College of Gastroenterology Guidelines for Colorectal Cancer Screening 2008. Am J Gastroenterol. 2009;104(3):739-750. PubMed
7. El-Tawil AM. Trends on gastrointestinal bleeding and mortality: Where are we standing? World J Gastroenterol. 2012;18(11):1154. PubMed
8. van Rijn AF, Stroobants AK, Deutekom M, et al. Inappropriate use of the faecal occult blood test in a university hospital in the Netherlands. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2012;24(11):1266-1269. PubMed
9. Narula N, Ulic D, Al-Dabbagh R, et al. Fecal occult blood testing as a diagnostic test in symptomatic patients is not useful: a retrospective chart review. Can J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2014;28(8):421-426. PubMed
10. Fleming, JL, Ahlquist DA, McGill DB, Zinsmeister AR, Ellefson RD, Schwartz S. Influence of aspirin and ethanol on fecal blood levels as determined by using the HemoQuant assay. Mayo Clin Proc. 1987;62(3):159-163. PubMed
11. Macrae FA, St John DJB. Relationship between patterns of bleeding and Hemoccult sensitivity in patients with colorectal cancers or adenomas. Gastroenterology. 1982;82:891-898. PubMed
12. Allard J, et al. Gastroscopy following a positive fecal occult blood test and negative colonoscopy: systematic review and guideline. Can J Gastroenterol. 2010;24(2):113-120. PubMed
13. Friedman A, Chan A, Chin LC, Deen A, Hammerschlag G, Lee M, et al. Use and abuse of faecal occult blood tests in an acute hospital inpatient setting. Intern Med J. 2010;40(2):107-111. PubMed
14. Allison JE, et al. Screening for colorectal neoplasms with new fecal occult blood tests: update on performance characteristics. J Natl Cancer Inst. 2007;99(19):1462-1470. PubMed
15. Chiang TH, Lee YC, Tu CH, Chiu HM, Wu MS. Performance of the immunochemical fecal occult blood test in predicting lesions in the lower gastrointestinal tract. CMAJ. 2011;183(13):1474-1481. PubMed
16. Bassett ML, Goulston KJ. False positive and negative hemoccult reactions on a normal diet and effect of diet restriction. Aust N Z J Med. 1980;10(1):1-4. PubMed
17. Jaffe, RM, Kasten B, Young DS, MacLowry JD. False-negative stool occult blood tests caused by ingestion of ascorbic acid (vitamin C). Ann Intern Med. 1975;83(6):824-826. PubMed
18. Ip S, Sokoro AAH, Kaita L, Ruiz C, McIntyre E, Singh H. Use of fecal occult blood testing in hospitalized patients: results of an audit. Can J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2014;28(9):489-494. PubMed
19. Srygley FD, Gerardo CJ, Trun T, Fisher DA. Does this patient have a severe upper gastrointestinal bleed? JAMA. 2012;307(10):1072-1079. PubMed
20. Logue KA. Data Request - FOBT. June 2016. Regions Hospital, HealthPartners Laboratory, Saint Paul, Minnesota.
21. Population Clock. http://www.census.gov/popclock/. Accessed July 8, 2016.
22. Mosadeghi S, Ren H, Yen I, Bhuket T. Evaluation of fecal occult blood testing in the acute hospital setting. Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. 2015;81(5).
23. Gastroccult [package insert]. Beckman Coulter, Brea, CA. https://www.beckmancoulter.com/wsrportal/wsr/diagnostics/clinical-products/rapid-diagnostics/gas troccult/index.htm. Accessed March 18, 2008.
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11. Macrae FA, St John DJB. Relationship between patterns of bleeding and Hemoccult sensitivity in patients with colorectal cancers or adenomas. Gastroenterology. 1982;82:891-898. PubMed
12. Allard J, et al. Gastroscopy following a positive fecal occult blood test and negative colonoscopy: systematic review and guideline. Can J Gastroenterol. 2010;24(2):113-120. PubMed
13. Friedman A, Chan A, Chin LC, Deen A, Hammerschlag G, Lee M, et al. Use and abuse of faecal occult blood tests in an acute hospital inpatient setting. Intern Med J. 2010;40(2):107-111. PubMed
14. Allison JE, et al. Screening for colorectal neoplasms with new fecal occult blood tests: update on performance characteristics. J Natl Cancer Inst. 2007;99(19):1462-1470. PubMed
15. Chiang TH, Lee YC, Tu CH, Chiu HM, Wu MS. Performance of the immunochemical fecal occult blood test in predicting lesions in the lower gastrointestinal tract. CMAJ. 2011;183(13):1474-1481. PubMed
16. Bassett ML, Goulston KJ. False positive and negative hemoccult reactions on a normal diet and effect of diet restriction. Aust N Z J Med. 1980;10(1):1-4. PubMed
17. Jaffe, RM, Kasten B, Young DS, MacLowry JD. False-negative stool occult blood tests caused by ingestion of ascorbic acid (vitamin C). Ann Intern Med. 1975;83(6):824-826. PubMed
18. Ip S, Sokoro AAH, Kaita L, Ruiz C, McIntyre E, Singh H. Use of fecal occult blood testing in hospitalized patients: results of an audit. Can J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2014;28(9):489-494. PubMed
19. Srygley FD, Gerardo CJ, Trun T, Fisher DA. Does this patient have a severe upper gastrointestinal bleed? JAMA. 2012;307(10):1072-1079. PubMed
20. Logue KA. Data Request - FOBT. June 2016. Regions Hospital, HealthPartners Laboratory, Saint Paul, Minnesota.
21. Population Clock. http://www.census.gov/popclock/. Accessed July 8, 2016.
22. Mosadeghi S, Ren H, Yen I, Bhuket T. Evaluation of fecal occult blood testing in the acute hospital setting. Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. 2015;81(5).
23. Gastroccult [package insert]. Beckman Coulter, Brea, CA. https://www.beckmancoulter.com/wsrportal/wsr/diagnostics/clinical-products/rapid-diagnostics/gas troccult/index.htm. Accessed March 18, 2008.
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