Imaging Tests for the Bladder
To identify bladder cancer, you may need tests with scanning machines that produce images of your body. A radiologist will interpret these images to understand the precise location and size of a tumor.
During treatment for bladder cancer, our doctors may use imaging to:
- Assess the size and location of any cancer
- Determine whether cancer has spread to the lymph nodes (small glands that filter bacteria, viruses, cancer cells, and other impurities) or other parts of the body and, if so, where
- Monitor how well cancer is responding to treatment
- See if cancer has returned after treatment
CT scans
These scans use X-ray technology to take cross-sectional images of the body. We use these technologies alone or combined with PET scans (a form of nuclear imaging), depending on the information we need from the scans. In the case of bladder imaging, CT scans are commonly performed after you have been given a contrast dye to help enhance visibility of internal structures.
Urogram
A urogram is an imaging study to evaluate the look for abnormal structures in your urinary system. The study will begin with the injection of a contrast dye. Your technologist will ask you to drink a few glasses of water or juice. The imaging technology – sometimes an MRI, but more commonly a CT scan – will scan you as the fluid travels from your kidneys through your ureters to your bladder. The study is used to identify abnormalities like cysts, stones, or tumors.
MRI
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses radio waves and a powerful magnetic field to create detailed, cross-sectional pictures of the bladder. MRI does not use radiation.
Bone scan
A bone scan can rule out whether bladder cancer has spread to your bones. Also called skeletal scintigraphy, the test uses a small amount of radioactive material to highlight any abnormal tissue, which may indicate cancer. Your doctor may recommend a bone scan if you are diagnosed with an invasive type of bladder cancer.
PET scans
A positron emission tomography (PET) scan is a nuclear imaging test that uses a small amount of radioactive material to highlight areas of suspicious cells. Computed tomography (CT) scans use X-ray technology to take cross-sectional images of the body. We use these technologies alone or combined, depending on the information we need from the scans.
We offer combined PET/CT scanning, which takes both scans at the same time and in the same machine to keep you in the same position. This technique allows us to combine CT images of the body with PET scans that highlight possible areas of cancer.
The combined PET/CT images show the specific locations of any cancer, providing more precise information for treatment. We use PET/CT scans to:
- Stage bladder cancer
- Check other parts of the body to see if bladder cancer has spread there
- Monitor cancer’s response to treatment
Stanford Health Library
For confidential help with your health care questions, contact the Stanford Health Library. Professional medical librarians and trained volunteers can help you access journals, books, e-books, databases, and videos to learn more about medical conditions, treatment options, and related issues.
- 875 Blake Wilbur Drive, Palo Alto: First floor near the cafe, 650-736-1960
- South Bay Cancer Center: 2589 Samaritan Drive, third floor lobby, 408-353-0197
Email us your questions: healthlibrary@stanfordhealthcare.org
Current as of: 2/2020
Stanford Health Education, 2020