Tests Used When Diagnosing Interstitial Cystitis

Diagnostic tests that help in ruling out other diseases include:

 

  

The most important test to confirm an interstitial cystitis diagnosis is a cystoscopy done under anesthesia. This test uses an instrument called a cystoscope to see inside the bladder. A liquid or gas is used to stretch the bladder. Anesthesia is required, because stretching the bladder can be painful for a person with interstitial cystitis. This test can detect bladder wall inflammation; pinpoint bleeding or ulcers; a thick, stiff bladder wall; and maximum bladder capacity.

 

Although not commonly done, the doctor might obtain prostatic fluid of a male patient and examine it for signs of a prostate infection, which, if found, can be treated with antibiotics.