Can a cystoscopy help to rule out interstitial cystitis?

Question

Hello doctor,

My doctor mentioned that a normal cystoscopy is sufficient to rule out interstitial cystitis, and that a cystoscopy under hydrodistention is not necessary. However, when I read online, this information seemed to differ. Could you please clarify if this approach is correct?

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

The recommendations regarding the need for hydrodistention (HD) (a medical procedure used to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the bladder) during cystoscopy (a diagnostic procedure that involves the direct visualization of the bladder and urethra using a cystoscope, a thin, flexible, or rigid tube with a light and camera) for interstitial cystitis (IC) (a chronic bladder condition causing pain, pressure, and urinary frequency or urgency without an identifiable infection or cause) can vary. Based on the details provided, here are a few points to consider:

Different approaches: Some urological societies recommend performing HD for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, while others suggest a normal cystoscopy alone. There is limited literature supporting the routine use of hydrodistention.

Hunner’s lesions: The characteristic of Hunner’s lesions, which are a hallmark of IC, are found in only 10 to 20 percent of patients suspected to have the condition.

Cystoscopy vs. hydrodistention: A normal cystoscopy can be performed under local anesthesia, whereas HD typically requires general or spinal anesthesia.

I suggest discussing the option of hydrodistention with your urologist to better understand its potential benefits in your case.

I hope I have answered your query.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

To address your question, here are the possibilities and some important points to consider:

Cystoscopy and Interstitial Cystitis:

If your normal cystoscopy does not show any abnormalities, the chances of you having interstitial cystitis are very minimal. Cystoscopy is a useful diagnostic tool to identify conditions affecting the bladder, and if it appears normal, it is unlikely that interstitial cystitis is present. Hydrodistention, which is sometimes used to diagnose interstitial cystitis, typically would not show any additional findings if the cystoscopy has already come back normal.

I hope I have answered your query.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.