The stool fat test is a diagnostic procedure that measures the amount of fat present in stool samples. It is employed to evaluate fat absorption and identify malabsorption syndromes. Raised fat levels in stool, referred to as steatorrhoea, can signal digestive or absorption problems within the gastrointestinal tract. This test supports the diagnosis of conditions such as pancreatic insufficiency, cystic fibrosis, coeliac disease, and Crohn’s disease.
Individuals showing symptoms of malabsorption, such as chronic diarrhea, greasy stools, unexplained weight loss, or abdominal discomfort, should undergo this test. It is also recommended for patients suspected of having pancreatic insufficiency, cystic fibrosis, celiac disease, or Crohn’s disease.
Symptoms that might indicate a need for a fecal fat test include bulky stools, stools that are oily or greasy, floating stools, weight loss, and abdominal bloating or pain. These symptoms suggest that fat is not being properly absorbed by the body.
Abnormal results, typically indicating excess fat in the stool, can be caused by conditions that affect fat absorption such as pancreatic insufficiency, celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, and certain liver diseases. These conditions impair the digestion or absorption of fats.
The collected stool samples are analyzed in a laboratory to measure the amount of fat that was not absorbed by the body.