OVERVIEW
Ph and reducing substances is a stool sample test used to diagnose lactose intolerance and some other
metabolic abnormalities that are not very common.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
How is the test performed?
This test is performed on a stool sample, this test is mainly performed in the laboratory as the sample
needs to be delivered to the laboratory within 1 hour of collection. This step is important as lactose or
other sugars in the stool will normally be broken down by chemical processes within 2-4 hours after the
sample collection.
What are the risks associated with this test?
No risk or discomfort associated with the test.
INTERPRETATION OF THE RESULT:
Fecal reducing substances test is reported as:
- Negative: means that the body is digesting and absorbing sugars properly
- Positive: means there are substances in the stool that can act as reducing agents. It means there are forms of sugar in the stool that have not been absorbed by the body