What are the most common urology tests?
In some cases, a thorough physical exam provides enough information to diagnose the cause of your symptoms. Most patients, however, need additional urology testing, beginning with two of the most common types: urine tests and blood work.
In addition to testing your urine for the presence of bacteria, blood, proteins, and glucose, a urinalysis can also reveal the presence of cancer cells.
Blood is often tested for:
- PSA (prostate-specific antigen): to detect prostate cancer
- Creatinine: to assess kidney function
- BUN (blood urea nitrogen): to assess kidney function
- Testosterone: to evaluate erectile dysfunction and hormone imbalance
When used together, creatinine and BUN tests help diagnose conditions that affect blood flow to your kidneys.
How is ultrasound used in urology testing?
The doctors at Advanced Urology of South Florida offer convenient in-office diagnostic ultrasound testing. During an ultrasound test, your doctor uses a device called a transducer to send high-frequency sound waves into your body.
The sound waves bounce off structures and return to the transducer, which transmits the information to a computer. As the computer translates the information into images, your doctor can see real-time images of your kidneys, bladder, prostate, and testicles.
Ultrasound helps diagnose many urologic conditions, such as:
- Tumors
- Cysts
- Infection
- Obstructions
- Fluid collection
- Bladder stones
- Bladder drainage
- Enlarged prostate or kidneys
Your doctor also uses ultrasound to look for problems associated with male infertility.
What specialized tests evaluate the urinary tract?
When you have urinary incontinence or find it hard to urinate, your doctor may perform one of these specialized tests or procedures:
Cystoscopy
During a cystoscopy, your urologist inserts a long, narrow, flexible tube through the urethra and into the bladder. A camera in the scope relays images of your urinary tract, revealing inflammation and infection, signs of cancer, and blockages.
Urodynamic studies
Several types of tests collectively called urodynamic studies, determine how well your bladder, urethra, and sphincter muscles hold and release urine. Urodynamic studies provide information such as bladder pressure, the amount of urine left in your bladder, and urine flow.
Uroflow
Uroflow, or a urine flow study, measures how fast urine flows, how much flows out, and the length of time it takes to urinate. This information helps your doctor evaluate problems like overactive bladder and other types of urinary incontinence.
If you experience any problems with your urinary tract, call Advanced Urology of South Florida or book an appointment online.
