Which test is conducted to detect gastrointestinal bleeding?

The Guaiac test is specifically designed to detect the presence of blood in the stool, which can indicate gastrointestinal bleeding. This test uses a chemical reaction that produces a color change if hemoglobin is present, signaling possible bleeding in the digestive tract. It is a valuable tool in clinical practice for identifying conditions such as ulcers, polyps, or cancers that may cause gastrointestinal bleeding.

While other tests, like a complete blood count (CBC), can provide information about overall health and can show signs of anemia due to significant blood loss, they are not specifically used to detect active gastrointestinal bleeding. Similarly, blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels can be influenced by various factors, including dehydration and kidney function, and an electrolyte panel provides information on the body's chemical balance but does not detect gastrointestinal bleeding directly. Thus, the Guaiac test is the most direct and appropriate choice for identifying gastrointestinal bleeding.