Blood in the Urine

Diagnosis & Tests

How is the condition diagnosed?

Diagnosis begins with a medical history and physical exam. This may be all that is needed to figure out the cause. In most cases, further testing is needed. Different tests may be ordered, depending on the suspected cause.

Blood and urine tests are commonly performed. Special X-ray tests of the kidneys and bladder may also be done. A procedure called a cystoscopy may be needed in some cases. A tiny tube with a light and camera on the end is used. This tube can be inserted into the urethra and pushed up into the bladder. The inside of the urinary tract can be seen with the camera. This may help a doctor discover the source of bleeding.