In short
Cystoscopy is a camera test that looks at the bladder lining. It is the main way bladder cancer is seen. Urine tests and a CT urogram or ultrasound check the kidneys at the same time. Abnormal areas are biopsied or removed. This is general UK information. A urologist explains what you will feel during the procedure.
Visible blood in the urine in adults usually means a two-week-wait urology referral. The camera test is what finds a growth on the lining.
What happens in a flexible cystoscopy?
A thin camera is passed along the urethra into the bladder in clinic, with local anaesthetic gel. You can usually go home the same day.
Why a kidney scan as well?
Blood can come from the ureters or kidneys. CT urogram or ultrasound looks upstream so a kidney tumour is not missed.
Help a patient afford cancer care
Gifts go to the Cancer Emergency Appeal’s wider fund for patients who cannot pay. They do not buy a guaranteed treatment or result.
Donate to cancer careWhat is TURBT?
If a growth is seen, a telescopic operation under anaesthetic (TURBT) removes it and provides the pathology that stages the cancer.
Key takeaways
- Cystoscopy is the key bladder test.
- Kidneys are scanned because the symptom overlaps.
- TURBT both treats and diagnoses many early cancers.
Care like this is out of reach for millions
The diagnosis, screening and treatment described here are routine in the UK. In Pakistan, Indonesia and Malaysia, poverty can put them out of reach. The Cancer Emergency Appeal raises funds towards clinically recommended care for patients who cannot pay; gifts go to the wider fund and do not buy a guaranteed treatment or result.
Frequently asked questions
Is cystoscopy painful?
Uncomfortable more than painful for most people. Ask about pain relief and whether you need someone to take you home.
Can urine cytology replace the camera?
No. Cells in urine can help but do not replace looking at the lining.
Does WAN offer cystoscopy in the UK?
No.
Editorial summary of published sources. A named oncology clinician has not signed off this guide. Use it to prepare questions for your healthcare team, not to diagnose symptoms or choose treatment. Editorial responsibility: Kaiser Khan. Updated 4 October 2026.
What are the sources for this guide?
Follow the original guidance for its evidence, dates and limitations. General background references are not a clinical review of this page.