Ureteral retrograde brush biopsy cytology

Alternative names:

biopsy - brush - urinary tract; retrograde ureteral brush biopsy cytology

How the test is performed:

This test is similar to cystoscopy. Local, regional (spinal), or general anesthesia may be used. You are positioned and a cystoscope (a fiberoptic scope) is placed through your urethra into the bladder. A guide wire is inserted through the cystoscope and into your ureter. A catheter is passed over the guide wire. Contrast dye is instilled through the catheter, and fluoroscopy (a type of X-ray where the image is shown on a television-like monitor) is used to position the catheter next to the lesion. The contrast medium is removed by irrigation with saline solution. A nylon or steel brush is placed through the catheter and the lesion is rubbed with the brush. This is repeated several times (usually at least 6 times) using a new brush each time. When the brush is removed, the tip of the brush is saved and tissue from the lesion is removed from the brush tip. After the last brushing, the area is irrigated with saline. This fluid (which also contains cells from the lesion) is also sent for examination.

How to prepare for the test:

You must sign a consent form. Fasting for about 6 hours is recommended. You will be given a mild sedative before the test.

Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:

• infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
• toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
• preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
• schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
• adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

How the test will feel:

Your bladder may feel full, and there may be some cramping or discomfort during the test.
The test will take about 30 to 60 minutes.

Afterward, there may be some mild cramping or discomfort. Some burning may occur the first few times you empty your bladder.

Why the test is performed:

This test is used to obtain a specimen of kidney (renal pelvis or calyx) or ureter tissue when X-ray (or other test) shows a lesion in this area.