Urology Diagnosis
Learn about our tests and how we identify symptom causes and underlying health conditions. We'll discuss each procedure with you in detail to make sure you understand what to expect.
We also provide pain management, so you'll be comfortable during the procedure. Once we confirm a diagnosis, we tailor a treatment plan for you. Find out more about our urology clinical programs and services.
Urology diagnostic tests include:
Imaging Tests
Our experts use sensors and 3D images to see how your bladder and urinary tract are working in real time. This test helps us determine which muscles need strengthening to reinforce the pelvic floor.
CT scans combine many X-ray images, taken at different angles. This test gives us a 3D picture of soft tissue like the adrenal glands, kidneys, pelvis and prostate.
We use a combination of X-rays and injectable dye to understand how your urinary tract is working. This procedure allows us to see movement in the kidneys, ureter and bladder.
MRIs create images of the adrenal glands by using magnets and radio waves. We perform MRIs on many parts of the urinary tract, including the pelvic floor, adrenal glands, prostate and vagina.
Lab Tests
Blood tests can help diagnose a number of conditions, including some forms of sexual dysfunction, cancers, infections and hormonal disorders. These tests help us monitor your kidney health and ensure you don't have other underlying conditions.
We draw a small sample of blood to determine if you have a high level of prostate specific antigen (PSA). A small amount is normal, but a high level could indicate an infection or cancer. Learn more about PSA.
We take samples of your sperm to understand several important aspects, including size, shape, speed and quantity.
We may ask that you try to pass a few small urinary tract stones into a strainer, which we then analyze. Once we see what the stone is made of, we can decide on the best treatment option to remove the rest.
We analyze a sample of your urine to see if a urinary tract infection is present.
Testing your urine over 24 hours tells our team if you have risk factors for kidney stone formation. We can then recommend dietary changes or medications that can help prevent kidney stones.
Minimally Invasive Tests
During a biopsy, a minimally invasive procedure, we collect a sample of your tissue. We analyze the sample to identify conditions such as cancer and renal failure. Sometimes, we perform the procedure with the help of imaging tools (ultrasound biopsy or MRI).
We test your bladder function by asking you to cough or bear down while your bladder is full. This helps us see how well your bladder stores urine and contracts and whether there are leaks.
This procedure allows us to see inside the bladder and ureter. We thread a small scope through the urethra into the bladder to view possible blockages.
MRI provides the possible best view of the prostate gland. If the MRI results show a possible tumor, we can digitally fuse the MRI images to real-time ultrasound images of the prostate. This method allows us to use the MRI images to guide the biopsy needle into tumors.
Other Tests
Your doctor physically examines the inside of your rectum using a gloved, lubricated finger as a probe. Learn more about what to expect about digital rectal exams.
Your doctor injects medication into your penis meant to give you an erection. If no erection results, it could indicate a blood flow problem.
Have Questions or Need Help?
To make an appointment or refer a patient, call the Urology Academic Practice team. You can also have us call you back at your convenience.