How to Detect Bladder Cancer With a CT Scan

The bladder is a hollow organ in the lower part of the abdomen that stores urine until it is passed from the body. Bladder disease may occur when malignant cancer cells are formed in the tissues of the organ. Three types of bladder cancer can result based on the types of cells that become malignant. These types include the transitional cell carcinoma of the innermost tissue layer, the squamous cell carcinoma of the squamous cells and the adenocarcinoma of the glandular or secretory cells of the bladder. If you are experiencing symptoms, including blood in the urine, frequent urination or the feeling of needing to urinate but being unable to do so, pain during urination or lower back pain, your doctor will most likely recommend that you get a CT scan to examine your bladder for cancer.

Instructions

• 1

  Fast the night before you have this procedure performed as you do not want anything in your stomach when you are getting the CT scan.

• 2

  Lay completely still while the computer linked to the X-ray machine takes detailed pictures of your bladder from different angles. All operations will be performed by a professional who will sit in a glassed-in area in a corner of the room.

• 3

  The CT technician will then come out and give you a contrast agent, either intravenously or have you drink it. Time will be allowed to let the contrast agent reach your bladder, and the technician will perform the appropriate steps with you again to take more detailed pictures.

• 4

  Consult with your doctor. You and your doctor are searching for masses of dyed cells as the contrast agent you took for the scan will congregate in masses of cells. If a mass is found, it is possible it is cancer but a biopsy will need to be done of the tissue to be sure.