Sample Collection

The multitarget stool DNA (mt-sDNA) collection kit is sent directly to the patient’s home. It includes step-by-step instructions for sample collection, preparation, and shipping.1

As part of the Cologuard® collection kit, the patient guide provides step-by-step instructions for sample collection1

Shipping of materials and samples happens directly between Exact Sciences Laboratories and the patient1

Exact Sciences Laboratories typically processes, analyzes, and provides a result to the provider for each mt-sDNA sample within 2 weeks2,3

mt-sDNA STOOL COLLECTION KIT1-5

mt-sDNA STOOL COLLECTION KIT AND COLLECTION PROCESS1,2

Image with text describing the mt-sDNA collection kit and sample collection process. The sample kit includes an order box, a sample container, a tube, instructions on how to return your kit, patient guide instructions, a bottle of liquid preservative, a bracket, and sample labels. The collection process follows this pattern: Collect the stool sample in the container for DNA testing, scrape the sample with a probe and place it in a separate vial for hemoglobin testing, prepare the sample for shipping, and ship it to the testing lab via UPS.
  • Exact Sciences Laboratories ships the kit directly to the patient and contacts the patient with instructions for collecting and returning the completed mt-sDNA test
  • Patient completes the test and ships the kit back to the Exact Sciences Laboratories for processing (via pre-paid UPS® label)
  • Exact Sciences Laboratories processes and analyzes the patient’s mt-sDNA test and typically provides a result to the ordering provider within 2 weeks
  • Provider reviews the result and performs appropriate patient follow-up:
    • Positive result: Colonoscopy referral
    • Negative result: Continued screening and risk assessment at appropriate intervals (every 3 years per ACS guidelinesa)

Learn more about the full Indications/Contraindications for the mt-sDNA test. Please see complete prescribing information for the Cologuard® test in the Cologuard Clinician Brochure.

Related Topics

Footnotes

  1. Three-year interval after negative result with mt-sDNA per Wolf AMD, et al. CA Cancer J Clin. 2018;68(4):250-281.

List of definitions

CRC: colorectal cancer; mt-sDNA: multitarget stool DNA; UPS: United Parcel Service.


References

  1. Cologuard Clinician Brochure. Exact Sciences Corporation. Madison, WI.
  2. Cologuard Patient Guide. Exact Sciences Corporation. Madison, WI.
  3. Anand S, Liang PS. A practical overview of the stool DNA test for colorectal cancer screening. Clin Transl Gastroenterol. 2022;13(4):e00464.
  4. Weiser E, Parks PD, Swartz RK, et al. Cross-sectional adherence with the multi-target stool DNA test for colorectal cancer screening: real-world data from a large cohort of older adults. J Med Screen. 2021;28(1):18-24.
  5. Wolf AMD, Fontham ETH, Church TR, et al. Colorectal cancer screening for average-risk adults: 2018 guideline update from the American Cancer Society. CA Cancer J Clin. 2018;68(4):250-281.