Bladder cancer is a malignant tumor originating from the epithelial cells of the bladder wall. Without early diagnosis and treatment, the tumor can easily invade the bladder muscle layer and even metastasize, posing a serious threat to life. Accurate diagnosis not only helps formulate treatment plans but also prevents further disease progression. Bladder cancer diagnosis generally uses a combination of multiple examination methods to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness.
1. Cystoscopy
Cystoscopy is the gold standard for diagnosing bladder cancer. By inserting a cystoscope, doctors can directly observe lesions on the bladder wall, assessing the tumor’s size, shape, and location. Cystoscopy also assists in biopsy sampling, providing the basis for pathological diagnosis. This method is intuitive, accurate, and indispensable for confirming bladder cancer.
2. Imaging examinations
Imaging techniques include ultrasound, CT, and MRI scans. Ultrasound is often used for preliminary screening, detecting bladder masses and changes in bladder wall thickness. CT scans assess tumor invasion depth and lymph node status, aiding in tumor staging. MRI, with its high soft tissue resolution, is better suited for evaluating bladder wall layers and adjacent organ involvement.
3. Urine cytology
Urine cytology examines shed cells in urine under a microscope to detect malignant cells. This non-invasive method has some value in early tumor detection, particularly for long-term follow-up of recurrent patients.
4. Other auxiliary tests
Bladder cancer diagnosis may also incorporate urine biomarker detection and genetic testing to improve early detection rates. By integrating multiple examination results, doctors can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the disease and provide a scientific basis for treatment.
Accurate diagnosis of bladder cancer relies on the combined application of multiple examination methods. Experts at United Life International Medical Center emphasize that early diagnosis is key to improving treatment success and prognosis. High-risk populations are advised to undergo regular relevant examinations for early detection and treatment.