Bladder cancer laboratory findings: Difference between revisions
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==Overview== | ==Overview== | ||
==Laboratory Findings== | ==Laboratory Findings== | ||
===Cystoscopy=== | |||
The gold standard of diagnosing bladder cancer is urine cytology and transurethral (through the urethra) cystoscopy. | The gold standard of diagnosing bladder cancer is urine cytology and transurethral (through the urethra) cystoscopy. | ||
Urine cytology can be obtained in voided urine or at the time of the cystoscopy ("bladder washing"). | Urine cytology can be obtained in voided urine or at the time of the cystoscopy ("bladder washing"). | ||
Revision as of 18:02, 31 August 2012
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Steven C. Campbell, M.D., Ph.D.
Overview
Laboratory Findings
Cystoscopy
The gold standard of diagnosing bladder cancer is urine cytology and transurethral (through the urethra) cystoscopy. Urine cytology can be obtained in voided urine or at the time of the cystoscopy ("bladder washing"). Many patients with a history, signs, and symptoms suspicious for bladder cancer are referred to a urologist or other physician trained in cystoscopy, a procedure in which a flexible tube bearing a camera and various instruments is introduced into the bladder through the urethra. Suspicious lesions may be biopsied and sent for pathologic analysis.
Urine tests
The laboratory checks the urine for blood, cancer cells, and other signs of disease. Cytology is very specific (a positive result is highly indicative of bladder cancer) but suffers from low sensitivity (a negative result does not exclude the diagnosis of cancer). There are newer urine bound markers for the diagnosis of bladder cancer. These markers are more sensitive but not as specific as urine cytology. They are much more expensive as well.