Mutated DNA in the stool—does it have a role in colorectal cancer screening?

Abstract

This Viewpoint discusses the role of stool DNA testing as a new diagnostic tool for detecting colorectal cancer. Preliminary data show it to have better performance characteristics than fecal occult blood testing, however, in its current form sensitivity remains low. Stool DNA testing needs to be studied in larger cohorts of asymptomatic patients, and new markers need to be developed before its role in colorectal cancer screening can be fully established.