Fat, Fecal Quantitative 24-Hour Collection (Includes Homogenization)
Also known as: FECQFAT24
Use
Measurement of fecal fats is useful in establishing a diagnosis of pancreatic disease, assisting in the assessment and monitoring of malabsorption related to gastrointestinal disorders. This test sheds light on the efficiency of fat digestion by evaluating the total fat excretion over a 24-hour period collected through a stool sample. It is especially pertinent in the evaluation of individuals suspected of having conditions that affect fat absorption, such as pancreatic insufficiency and small bowel diseases.
Special Instructions
Patients are required to maintain a diet with 50 to 150 grams of fat per day for three days prior to the test to ensure accurate results. The patient must use the ARUP Timed Stool Collection Kit, which must be refrigerated during the collection process. The collection should be stored and transported frozen to maintain sample integrity.
Limitations
This test specifically measures fecal fats and may not detect all possible disorders affecting fat metabolism. It does not account for variations caused by dietary fluctuations outside the prescribed pre-test regimen, and improper sample handling may lead to inaccurate results. External factors like the intake of nonabsorbable fat substitutes such as olestra can interfere with results and should be avoided.
New York Approved
Methodology
Other
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 30078-0
- 16142-2
Result Turnaround Time
2-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Stool
Volume
Not provided
Minimum Volume
4 g
Container
ARUP approved transport container(s)
Collection Instructions
Collect a 24-hour stool sample using the ARUP Timed Stool Collection Kit. Refrigerate the collection process and submit the entire collection.
Patient Preparation
Maintain a diet of 50 to 150 grams of fat per day for three days prior. Avoid nonabsorbable fat substitutes like olestra.
Storage Instructions
Store the sample frozen.
Causes for Rejection
Random collections, specimens containing barium or charcoal, specimens in media or preservatives, and containers larger than 500 mL will be rejected.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 12 hours |
| Refrigerated | 4 days |
| Frozen | 2 weeks |