Ultrasound

Hubby had an ultrasound today looking for bladder cancer .

He was told that they couldn't see anything sinister but sometimes the ultrasound doesn't pick up ' flat ' tumours ?

How accurate are ultrasounds for detecting bladder cancer ?

And a bit of background 

He is 60 - recently had a urine infection - first test showed high white blood count which is understandable ?

10 days later the second urine test showed the white blood count had quadrupled but no growth

Because of his age he has had to be fast tracked for tests for bladder cancer.

Because of the uti he was put on the antibiotic Nitrofurantoin and I have read that can cause a high white blood count ( he finished the antibiotics 5 days before the second urine test .

  • Hello and thanks for posting

    I'm sorry to read about what's been happening with your husband.

    An ultrasound scan can be helpful in picking up larger or more obvious abnormalities in the bladder. But they can miss smaller or flatter tumours especially ones that sit closer to the bladder wall.

    We have information on our website on the possible tests to look for signs of bladder cancer. A cystoscopy is one of the main tests used.

    I imagine that your husband being referred on the urgent two week pathway may feel a bit scary. But it's important to remember that this doesn't mean something is definitely wrong. It's just to make sure, as quickly as possible that everything is okay or, if needed, he gets the right care early. The majority of people who are referred urgently do not turn out to have cancer.

    I hope you both know more soon. Please get back to us if you need any more information or support. You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Kind regards,

    Celene