Black flecks in colon

I am a 52 year old woman.  I had a colonoscopy at 50 and all was fine.  I noticed today black flecks in my stool and wondered what this could be due to.  The flecks look like charred pieces.  Ohterwise my stool is brown and even colored.  I was out of town this weekend and ate a richer diet that I am not used to (my diet is otherwise pretty simple). I did eat some meat but not lot. Any advice?

[Kevin Pho, MD]

A colonoscopy 2 years ago is reassuring, making cancer or large polyps less likely.  

Obtaining a stool guaiac test can be done to see if there is blood present.  If positive, repeating an endoscopy can be considered.  

If negative, testing the stool for food malabsorption can be considered.  

Repeating the endoscopy can also be considered if the testing is negative to ensure nothing has progressed in the interim.  

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_

[Biskie2]

Was your meat barbequed on a grill? Sometimes the charred pieces will not break down as well in your stool.