Table of Contents
- Overview
- Results
- Risks
- Prevention
- Images
A cytology exam of urine is used to detect
Alternative Names
Urine cytology
How the test is performed
A clean catch (midstream) urine sample is needed. For information on how to obtain the sample, see
The urine sample can also be collected during an examination of the inside of your bladder called cystoscopy.
The urine sample is processed in a laboratory and examined under a microscope by a pathologist who looks for abnormal cells.
How to prepare for the test
No special preparation is needed.
How the test will feel
There is no discomfort associated with a clean catch urine specimen.
Why the test is performed
The test is done to detect cancer and inflammatory diseases of the urinary tract. The test is often done when blood is detected in the urine. It is also useful for monitoring a patient with a history of cancer of the urinary tract. The test may occasionally be ordered for individuals who are at high risk of developing bladder cancer.
The test can also detect cytomegalovirus and other viral diseases.
Review Date: 09/30/2009
Reviewed By: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of
General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington
School of Medicine; Scott Miller, MD, Urologist in private practice
in Atlanta, Georgia. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical
Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)
