How does ColoVantage® Home work?
At home, the user collects two separate samples of toilet bowl water that are stored and protected on the Test Card. The sample is then posted through the mail (postage paid envelope provided) to the laboratory for processing. In the laboratory, the sample is tested using a sophisticated ‘immunoassay’ to look for the presence of human blood in the sample.
The sensitivity to human haemoglobin was determined in-vitro as 50 micrograms of haemoglobin per gram of faeces and clinical comparative studies for this test have shown 87% sensitivity and 98% specificity.
If the result from this test is ‘positive’ this means that blood was detected and your doctor may request that you undergo further medical testing to look for the source of the bleeding.
Any of the following conditions may cause an incorrect result, DO NOT perform the test if:
- You have haemorrhoids (piles) that are bleeding.
- You have blood in your urine or there is blood visible in the toilet bowl or in the stool. In this case you should contact your doctor.
- It is within three days before, during or three days after your menstrual period.
- You have bleeding cuts or wounds on your hands.
- Your toilet bowl water is saltwater or rusty.
- Cleaners or bluing agents are present in the toilet bowl or tank. If so, remove them first, flush at least twice until clear, then begin the test.
- The Test Card has passed its Expiration Date, or the Test Kit is damaged, dirty or appears to have been tampered with in any way.
If you have any concerns please contact your health professional or ColoVantage®Home Bowel Screening Service on 1800 55 65 75.
Please note, Enterix cannot respond to questions about general medical information or questions regarding your personal medical condition.