What happens if the cytology test is positive?
The urine cytology test is a key diagnostic tool for detecting the presence of abnormal cells or tumors in the urinary tract, particularly in the bladder. But what does a positive result really mean? And what are the next steps?
What is urinary cytology examination?
It is a laboratory test that analyzes a urine specimen for the presence of atypical or cancerous urothelial cells. It is often requested in the presence of:
- Blood in the urine (hematuria).
- Suspected recurrence of bladder cancer.
- Postoperative follow-ups.
- Blood in the urine (hematuria).
- Suspected recurrence of bladder cancer.
- Postoperative follow-ups.
When is it considered "positive"?
The examination is called "positive" when suspicious or frankly cancerous cells are identified. This may indicate:
- The presence of an early or advanced tumor.
- A recurrence of an already treated tumor.
- Sometimes, also a benign lesion but with atypical features (rare).
- The presence of an early or advanced tumor.
- A recurrence of an already treated tumor.
- Sometimes, also a benign lesion but with atypical features (rare).
What happens after a positive result?
A positive report requires immediate investigations, including:
1.Cystoscopy: endoscopic examination of the bladder to directly visualize any lesions.
2.Biopsy: collection of suspicious tissue for histological confirmation.
3. Imaging tests: such as ultrasound, CT scan or MRI to assess the extent.
4.Additional molecular tests: such as FISH (Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization), to detect tumor-related chromosomal alterations.
1.Cystoscopy: endoscopic examination of the bladder to directly visualize any lesions.
2.Biopsy: collection of suspicious tissue for histological confirmation.
3. Imaging tests: such as ultrasound, CT scan or MRI to assess the extent.
4.Additional molecular tests: such as FISH (Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization), to detect tumor-related chromosomal alterations.
What if the test is positive but the cystoscopy is negative?
In these cases, the patient is monitored more closely because it could be:
- Very small injuries not currently visible.
- Early sign of recurrence.
- False positive (rarer).
Follow-up may include:
- Repeat cytological examination.
- New cystoscopy after a few months.
- Possible supportive FISH testing.
A positive cytologic examination is not a condemnation, but a wake-up call for early action. It is important to follow the checks indicated by the specialist and complete the diagnostic course to best define the situation.
- Very small injuries not currently visible.
- Early sign of recurrence.
- False positive (rarer).
Follow-up may include:
- Repeat cytological examination.
- New cystoscopy after a few months.
- Possible supportive FISH testing.
A positive cytologic examination is not a condemnation, but a wake-up call for early action. It is important to follow the checks indicated by the specialist and complete the diagnostic course to best define the situation.
