Urologic Evaluations

Diagnostic tests on the urinary tract can provide clues to many diseases and a person’s overall health. Here are some common urologic evaluations:

Blood analysis

Commonly performed to check for signs of kidney damage or infection and to measure the levels of key substances in blood.

Cystoscopy

Examination using a cystoscope, a narrow, lighted viewing instrument, to inspect the bladder for stones, tumors, bleeding and infection.

Imaging procedures

X-rays, ultrasound or CT scanning, and other radiological imaging tests to detect kidney damage, tumors or kidney stones.

Intravenous pyelography (IVP)

A special x-ray test that uses an injected dye to outline structures of the urinary tract and detect abnormalities such as tumors, obstructions and kidney disease.

Post-void residual (PVR) urine test

Measurement of the amount of urine left in the bladder after urination to evaluate an enlarged prostate.

Urinalysis

Examination of a urine sample for various cells and chemicals that may signal a disease or infection of the urinary tract.

Urine culture

A laboratory test to detect and identify bacteria or other organisms that may be causing a urinary tract infection.

Urodynamic studies

Measurements taken during urination to investigate problems with bladder control.