Health Encyclopedia

Cytology exam of urine

Definition

A cytology exam of urine is used to detect cancer and inflammatory diseases of the urinary tract.

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 clean catch urine specimen.

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 bladder lesions are noted on an x-ray.

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.

Normal Values

The urine shows normal cells and is relatively free of debris.

Note: Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.

What abnormal results mean

Abnormal cells in the urine may be a sign of inflammation of the urinary tract orcancer of the kidney, ureters, bladder, or urethra.

Special considerations

The diagnosis of cancer or inflammatory disease cannot be made exclusively by this test. The results are confirmed by other diagnostic tests or procedures.

Review Date:10/15/2007
Reviewed By:Frank A. Greco, M.D., Ph.D., Director, Biophysical Laboratory, The Lahey Clinic, Burlington, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

ADAM Quality A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's accreditation program is the first of its kind, requiring compliance with 53 standards of quality and accountability, verified by independent audit. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. Learn more about A.D.A.M.'s editorial process. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics (www.hiethics.com) and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch).

The Agency for Health Care Administration (Agency) and this website do not claim the information on, or referred to by, this site is error free. This site may include links to websites of other government agencies or private groups. Our Agency and this website do not control such sites and are not responsible for their content. Reference to or links to any other group, product, service, or information does not mean our Agency or this website approves of that group, product, service, or information.

Additionally, while health information provided through this website may be a valuable resource for the public, it is not designed to offer medical advice. Talk with your doctor about medical care questions you may have.