# Cystoscopy and tests for bladder cancer

> Source: World Aid Network — https://worldaidnetwork.org/cancer/bladder-cancer/tests

## 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.

## What 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.

## Related pages in this guide

- Overview: https://worldaidnetwork.org/cancer/bladder-cancer
- Symptoms: https://worldaidnetwork.org/cancer/bladder-cancer/symptoms
- Cystoscopy: https://worldaidnetwork.org/cancer/bladder-cancer/tests
- Treatment: https://worldaidnetwork.org/cancer/bladder-cancer/treatment

## 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.

## How you can help

World Aid Network funds cancer treatment for patients who cannot pay in Pakistan, Indonesia and Malaysia. Donate at https://worldaidnetwork.org/appeal/cancer-emergency or https://worldaidnetwork.org/donate?cause=cancer-treatment&appeal=cancer-emergency

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This is general information, not medical advice, published by World Aid Network. Always consult a qualified clinician about your own health.