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How Do Doctors Diagnose Cystitis? Understanding Urine Tests
Published: Feb 28, 2024
While doctors can often diagnose cystitis based on symptoms alone, urine tests play a crucial role in confirming the diagnosis and guiding treatment. Let's explore the key tests used to identify bladder infections.
Urinalysis: The First Line of Defense
A urinalysis is typically the first test performed. This involves examining a urine sample under a microscope and with chemical test strips. Doctors look for signs of infection like white blood cells (a sign of inflammation) and nitrites (produced by certain bacteria). This test can also detect blood in the urine, which sometimes occurs with cystitis.
Urine Culture: Identifying the Culprit
If a urinalysis suggests an infection, a urine culture may be done. This test grows any bacteria present in the urine sample to identify the specific type causing the infection. It also helps determine which antibiotics will be most effective. Results usually take a few days, so treatment may start before they're available.
When Are These Tests Needed?
Not everyone with suspected cystitis needs these tests. They're most often used for women with atypical symptoms, those at risk for complicated infections, or when previous treatments haven't worked. For many healthy women with classic cystitis symptoms, doctors may prescribe treatment without testing.
Other Potential Tests
In some cases, especially for recurrent or complicated infections, additional tests may be needed. These could include imaging studies like ultrasounds or CT scans to check for kidney stones or other urinary tract abnormalities that might be contributing to infections.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, fasting isn't necessary for urine tests used to diagnose cystitis.
Yes, but inform your healthcare provider as it may affect the results.
Wipe the genital area, start urinating, then collect midstream in a sterile cup.
They're not as accurate and can't identify the specific bacteria or its antibiotic sensitivities.
Yes, so it's best to test before starting antibiotics if possible.
Putting the Pieces Together
While urine tests are valuable tools, they're just one part of the diagnostic process for cystitis.
References
- Wilson ML, Gaido L. Laboratory diagnosis of urinary tract infections in adult patients. Clin Infect Dis 2004; 38:1150.
- Hooton TM, Roberts PL, Cox ME, Stapleton AE. Voided midstream urine culture and acute cystitis in premenopausal women. N Engl J Med 2013; 369:1883.
- Gupta K, et al. International clinical practice guidelines for the treatment of acute uncomplicated cystitis and pyelonephritis in women: A 2010 update by the Infectious Diseases Society of America and the European Society for Microbiology and Infectious Diseases. Clin Infect Dis 2011; 52:e103.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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