Fecal fat

[Beckybeck]

Hi I went to the doctor today and they want to test me for fecal fat. For the test i am supposed to be on a high fat diet (100grams) of fat for 3 days prior to collection and then during collection. I must collect all bowel movements for 72 hour (3 days!), into a special container. I am very worried about the results and to be honest I am grossed out about this test. Has anyone ever done somthing like or similiar to this before? Any input would be great
Thanks,
Becky

[lewissage]

Sorry Becky,
You are on your own on this one. I didn't want you to not have any responses, so I thought I'd at least give some sympathy. It sound like you have a very good doctor at least he's looking under every rock, and please excuse the pun in every hole.

Live well

lewis

[jaydees]

I haven't done this test but have done a fecal blood test. Yes it is gross but what you do in the privacy of your bathroom is YOUR business and no one else need know what you have to do.

Why do they want this test done? Gall bladder problem?

[Kissa]

This test is used to evaluate fat absorption as an indication of liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and intestinal functions.

Lipid (fat) malabsorption is called steatorrhea. Normal lipid absorption requires bile from the gallbladder (or liver if the gallbladder has been removed), enzymes from the pancreas, and a normal intestines.

Normal Values:
Less than 7g of fat per 24-hours

What abnormal results mean:
Decreased fat absorption may result from:
biliary cancer
biliary stricture
celiac disease
cholelithiasis
chronic pancreatitis
Crohn's disease
cystic fibrosis
pancreatic cancer
pancreatitis
radiation enteritis
short bowel syndrome (e.g., from surgery or congenital anomaly)
sprue
Whipple's disease

[Beckybeck]

Thanks, the thing is I wonder why they need soo much!