Gastroenterology nursing : the official journal of the Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates
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Review Comparative Study
The stool DNA test: an emerging technology in colorectal cancer screening.
The stool DNA test is considered an emerging technology in screening for colorectal cancer. The stool DNA test detects DNA markers which are shed from cells of premalignant adenomas and cancers into the stool. Potentially, both preclinical and clinical colorectal cancer may be detected. ⋯ Some limitations of the stool DNA test include the need for clinical studies in average-risk populations and marker refinement. An automated testing system may help reduce costs and turnaround times. Despite recognized limitations, the stool DNA test is a promising new diagnostic tool with the potential to improve effectiveness of colorectal cancer screening.