Comparing Two Tests for Hidden Blood in Stool
Author Information
Author(s): W.M. Thomas, J.D. Hardcastle, J. Jackson, G. Pye
Primary Institution: University Hospital, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham
Hypothesis
Is the new immunological test (Hemeselect) more sensitive than the established chemical test (Haemoccult) for detecting colorectal neoplasia in symptomatic patients?
Conclusion
The Hemeselect test is more sensitive than the Haemoccult test for detecting colorectal neoplasia in symptomatic patients.
Supporting Evidence
- Hemeselect detected 94% of colorectal cancers compared to 58% for Haemoccult.
- Hemeselect was more sensitive for adenomas (66.6% vs 33.3%).
- Hemeselect was more sensitive for inflammatory bowel disease (88.9% vs 33.3%).
- 32.8% of patients had a positive Hemeselect reaction compared to 14.8% for Haemoccult.
Takeaway
This study found that a new test for hidden blood in stool is better at finding cancer than the old test, but it also gives more false positives.
Methodology
Patients completed both tests on three consecutive bowel motions, and results were compared with clinical findings.
Limitations
The study's specificity for the Hemeselect test was lower, which may lead to more false positives.
Participant Demographics
Median age 69 years, 211 males and 139 females.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
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