Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT)
Sometimes cancers or polyps in the
colon bleed. The FOBT can detect tiny amounts of blood in the stool; if this test detects blood, other tests are needed to determine its source. Other conditions, like
hemorrhoids, can also cause blood in the stool.
Sigmoidoscopy
During a
sigmoidoscopy, the doctor checks inside the rectum and lower (sigmoid) colon with a lighted tube called a sigmoidoscope. If polyps are found, the doctor removes them. The procedure to remove polyps is called a polypectomy.
Colonoscopy
During a
colonoscopy for
colon cancer screening, the doctor examines inside the rectum and entire colon using a long, lighted tube called a colonoscope. The doctor removes any polyps that may be found.
Barium Enema
A
barium enema is a test involving a series of x-rays of the colon and rectum. The patient is given an enema that contains a barium solution, and air is pumped into the rectum. The barium and air outline the colon and rectum on the x-rays. Polyps may show up on the x-ray.
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