LAB TEST

Bladder biopsy

Bladder biopsy is a procedure in which small pieces of tissue are removed from the bladder. The tissue is tested under a microscope.

How the Test is Performed

A bladder biopsy can be done as part of a cystoscopy . Cystoscopy is a procedure that is done to see the inside of the bladder using a thin lighted tube called a cystoscope. A small piece of tissue or the entire abnormal area is removed. The tissue is sent to the lab to be tested if: Abnormalities of the bladder are…

How to Prepare for the Test

You must sign an informed consent form before you have a bladder biopsy. In most cases, you are asked to urinate just before the procedure. You may also be asked to take an antibiotic before the procedure. For infants and children, the preparation you can provide for this test depends on your child's age, previous…

How the Test will Feel

You may have a slight discomfort as the cystoscope is passed through your urethra into your bladder. You will feel discomfort that is similar to a strong urge to urinate when the fluid has filled your bladder. You may feel a pinch during the biopsy. There may be a burning sensation when the blood vessels are sealed to…

Why the Test is Performed

This test is most often done to check for cancer of the bladder or urethra.

Normal Results

The bladder wall is smooth. The bladder is of a normal size, shape, and position. There are no blockages , growths, or stones .

What Abnormal Results Mean

The presence of cancer cells indicates bladder cancer. The type of cancer can be determined from the biopsy sample. Other abnormalities may include: Bladder diverticula Cysts Inflammation Infection Ulcers

Risks

There is some risk for urinary tract infection (UTI). There is a slight risk for excessive bleeding. There may be a rupture of the bladder wall with the cystoscope or during biopsy. There is also a risk that the biopsy will fail to detect a serious condition.

Considerations

You will likely have a small amount of blood in your urine shortly after this procedure. If the bleeding continues after you urinate, contact your health care provider. Also contact your provider if: You have pain, chills, or a fever You are producing less urine than usual ( oliguria ) You cannot urinate despite a…

References

Cundiff GW, Bent AE. Cystourethroscopy. In: Baggish MS, Karram MM, eds. Atlas of Pelvic Anatomy and Gynecologic Surgery . 5th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 120. Duty BD, Conlin MJ. Principles of urologic endoscopy. In: Partin AW, Dmochowski RR, Kavoussi LR, Peters CA, eds. Campbell-Walsh-Wein Urology .…

This is a summary. Read the full article at www.ucsfbenioffchildrens.org (reviewed 17/05/2024).

This page is general information and is not medical advice. It does not replace a registered doctor, and it is not a prescription or a recommendation to use any medicine or test. Prices are listed prices and may change. Always follow the advice of your doctor or pharmacist.