Abstract: Self-contained systems test for the presence of occult blood in a specimen. In one embodiment, the system has a test matrix comprising a testing portion spaced apart from a medium entrance portion, wherein the testing portion has a specimen placement area on a first side and a result area on an opposing second side. The system also has a container holding a developing medium, wherein the container is adapted to release the developing solution onto the solution entrance portion. A housing holds the test matrix and the container. The housing has a specimen opening at the specimen placement area and preferably is adapted to enable the result area to be observed. The developing medium preferably is a free standing liquid within the container. The developing medium is released from the container upon compression or breaking of the container.