Fecal Fat and Muscle Fibers, Qualitative

Evaluate malabsorption syndromes, pancreatic exocrine dysfunction, or gastrocolic fistula.

Patient is required to eat adequate amounts of red meat for 24 to 72 hours before testing. Specimens obtained with a warm saline enema or Fleet® Phospho-Soda® are acceptable. Specimens obtained with mineral oil, bismuth, or magnesium compounds are unsatisfactory. Barium procedures or laxatives should be avoided for one week prior to collection of the specimen.