Fecal Fat Stool Test, Qualitative
A fecal fat stool test, qualitative is useful in determining the presence or absence of excess fat in the stool.
Description
Fecal fat testing may be ordered if one's physician believes that the digestive system isn't working accurately. Generally, the absorption of fat is contingent on an assortment of elements, such as:
- bile production in liver or gallbladder
- production of enzymes in the pancreas
- functioning of the intestines
One might consider ordering this test if the following symptoms persist:
- frequent loose stools
- indigestion
- gas
- cramps
- foul-smelling, fatty stools
- unexplained weight loss
When these organs are functioning poorly, one's body may not be capable of absorbing the right amount of fat that the body needs to stay healthy.
If the absorption of fat has reduced, this could be a sign of several different disorders:
- Celiac disease
- Crohn's disease
- Cystic fibrosis
- Pancreatitis
- Cancer