iFOBT FAQ's

Some Common Questions & Answers

Q: Is the test working properly even if one of the lines is lighter than the other?

A: Yes, both lines need not be the same shade or intensity. The Test line may be darker or lighter than the Control line. Only one colored line in the Control position indicates a negative result (no blood in the sample). If no pink-purple line is visible in either position, another VERSÉA™ Easy Lab iFOBT Immunochemical Fecal Occult Blood Test should be performed.

Q: How long will the pinkish-purple line remain visible to show someone?

A: A positive result will stay positive for several days. The colored line may become darker and a tinted background may appear after several hours. Weak positive lines may appear very faint when the strip is dry. Some negative results may later display a faint line after reading time. Therefore, read the test result in 5-10 minutes, and not after 10 minutes.

Q: Who can I call if I have more questions?

A: You can reach our Customer Service representatives at 1-800-397-0670.

Q: If the result is negative, does that mean I am free of disease?

A: A test result may be negative even when disease is present since bowel lesions, including some colorectal cancers and significant polyps, may not bleed at all or may bleed intermittently, or the blood may not be uniformly distributed in a stool sample and therefore missed during sampling. You should repeat the test if you suspect that you have sampled incorrectly or notice changes in your health, and seek professional help even if the initial test result is negative.

Q: If the test result is positive, do I have cancer?

A: Not necessarily; a positive result may be from polyps, which may not be cancerous but can develop into cancer if not removed. Certain medications could cause gastrointestinal irritation that may produce positive test results. The following list of conditions can result in occult bleeding and positive test results: Diarrhea, Colitis, Constipation, Diverticulitis, Ulcers, Hemorrhoid flare-ups.

VERSÉA™ Easy Lab iFOBT Immunochemical Fecal Occult Blood Test is a preliminary screening test and the test result should not be considered a conclusive diagnosis for gastrointestinal bleeding associated with cancer or pathology. If you get a positive result, you should consult with your doctor for further medical diagnosis.

Q: Is there a best time of the day for the collection of stool for the test?

A: No. You can collect stool and test at any time of the day.

Q: Is there any food restriction for using VERSÉA™ Easy Lab iFOBT Immunochemical Fecal Occult Blood Test?

A: Normally none. But an excessive intake of certain oxidative foods, such as horse radish or red beets may alter occult hemoglobin and may cause false negative test results.