In malabsorption syndromes, notably pancreatic insufficiency and Whipple disease, steatorrhea is a prominent feature. Fecal fats can be useful in diagnosis of cystic fibrosis, chronic pancreatitis, neoplasia, or stone obstruction. Also useful in regional enteritis, celiac disease, sprue, and the atrophy of malnutrition. Limitations C8 and C10 saturated fatty acids are not quantitated with this method. This test was developed, and its performance characteristics determined, by LabCorp. It has not been cleared or approved by the Food and Drug Administration.
Specimen Type
Stool
Container
Stool Container
Collection Instructions
Container/Tube: Use 1 gallon, with screw-cap, supplied by Northwell Specimen: Stool specimen 72 Hr collection ( Collections of 24 or 48 hours are not recommended since results are subject to greater variability.) Transport Temperature: Refrigerated Note: 1. Send entire can 2. Record total collection time on specimen and requisition. Stability: 5 Days Room Temperature 14 Days Refrigerated 14 Days Frozen Patient Preparation Adult patients should be on a standard diet containing 50 to 150 g of fat per day for at least three days before test is started and during the 72-hour collection. In children, the amount of fat in the diet should be constant for one day before the test and during the test. The patient should not have had mineral oil as a laxative prior to specimen collection.
Transport Instructions
Refrigerated
Specimen Stability
5 Days Room Temperature 14 Days Refrigerated 14 Days Frozen Patient Preparation Adult patients should be on a standard diet containing 50 to 150 g of fat per day for at least three days before test is started and during th