Urinary Tract Infection - Diagnosis

Cystoscopy. Cystoscopy is used to detect structural abnormalities, interstitial cystitis, or masses that might not show up on x-rays during an IVP. The patient is given a light anesthetic and the bladder is filled with water. The procedure uses a cystoscope, a flexible, tube-like instrument that the urologist inserts through the urethra into the bladder.

Click the icon to see an image of cystoscopy.

Other Diagnostic Tests for Kidney Infections and Severe UTIs

No noninvasive test will differentiate between upper and lower urinary tract infections. This is a particular problem because of the high percentage of women whose cystitis symptoms mask infections that also exist in the upper tract.

Antibiotic Trial. The best current test for pyelonephritis is the short-term antibiotic therapy given for cystitis. If the infection returns within two weeks after treatment, upper urinary tract infection is usually present.

Blood Cultures. If symptoms are severe, blood cultures will be taken to determine if the infection is in the bloodstream and threatening other parts of the body.

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