The following tests and procedures can be used to diagnose bladder cancer: Physical and medical history – A physical examination will be performed to analyze general signs of health, including signs of disease such as formations or other abnormalities. Consider an analysis of the patient\’s health habits and past illnesses and treatments.

Urine tests– If the doctor suspects the presence of blood in the urine, a urine cytology test may be indicated. Urine cytology often uses a random urine sample of normal urine to see if it contains tumor cells. If a patient undergoes a cystoscopy, an additional test may be performed which involves rinsing the bladder and collecting the liquid through the cystoscope or another small tube inserted into the urethra. The sample can be tested in a variety of ways. The most common method is to examine the cells under a microscope.

Cystoscopy– A procedure that involves analyzing the inside of the bladder and the urethra to check for abnormal areas. A cystoscope is inserted through the urethra into the bladder. Flexible cystoscopy is performed in a medical cabinet and does not require anesthesia. This short procedure can detect bladder changes and may cause the need for a biopsy or surgery.

Intravenous pyelogram (IVP)– a series of x-ray procedures in the kidneys, ureters, and bladder to see if cancer cells are present in these organs. A contrast agent is injected intravenously. As the contrast substance circulates through the kidneys, ureters, and bladder, the images are captured to see if there are blockages.

Biopsy– involves sampling cells or tissues so that they can be analyzed by a pathologist at the microscope to detect signs of cancer. A biopsy for bladder cancer is usually done during cystoscopy. It may be possible to remove the entire tumor during resection. This surgical procedure is called transurethral tumor resection of the bladder or TURBT. The doctor removes the tumor and a part of the bladder muscle near the tumor.

Computed tomography– A CT scan creates a three-dimensional image of the body\’s interior using X-rays taken from different angles. A computer combines these images with abnormalities or tumors. A CT scan can be used to measure the size of the tumor and identify enlargement to the lymph nodes, which can show if cancer cells have spread. Sometimes a contrast substance is administered before scanning to provide more detailed images about tissue.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) – An MRI uses magnetic fields, not X-rays, to produce detailed body images. MRI can be used to measure tumor size and to identify lymph nodes affected by cancer. A contrast substance is administered before scanning to create a clearer picture. This dye can be injected into a patient\’s vein or administered as a liquid for swallowing.

Positron emission tomography (PET) or PET-CT scan– A PET scan is usually combined with a CT scan, called PET-CT scan. A PET scan is a way to create images of organs and tissues inside the body. A small amount of radioactive substance is injected into the patient\’s body. This substance is taken up by the cells that use most of the energy. Because cancer tends to use active energy, it absorbs more of the radioactive substance. A scanner then detects this substance to produce images of the body\’s interior.

Ultrasound– uses sound waves to create a picture of internal organs. This can help detect blockages in the kidneys or ureters. This test does not require any contrast substance.