What is the purpose of a guaiac test?

The guaiac test is specifically designed to detect the presence of blood in the stool. This test is often used as a screening tool for gastrointestinal bleeding, which can be indicative of conditions such as polyps, hemorrhoids, or colorectal cancer. The test works by using a chemical reaction; guaiac resin changes color in the presence of hemoglobin, allowing healthcare providers to identify even small amounts of blood that are not visible to the naked eye. This makes the guaiac test a valuable diagnostic tool in preventive health screenings.