Can You Have A Normal Cystoscopy Result in IC?

It seems like "confusion" is a word that comes up a lot in the medical literature when it comes to interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS). There's been a lot of debate about whether or not cystoscopy should be used to diagnose and classify IC/BPS. Some experts from the European Society for the Study of Interstitial Cystitis (ESSIC) say that cystoscopy is necessary for diagnosis, while others like the American Urological Association (AUA) think it's only needed for more complicated cases. Even the specific protocol for cystoscopy and HD in IC/BPS can vary quite a bit and there's no clear consensus.

What is Cystoscopy? 

A cystoscopy is a medical procedure in which a thin, flexible tube with a camera at the end, called a cystoscope, is inserted into the urethra and guided into the bladder. It's used to examine the lining of the bladder and urethra for any abnormalities, such as inflammation, tumors, or signs of infection.

Diagnosis

During a cystoscopic evaluation for IC/BPS, the two most common things doctors might see are Hunner lesions and glomerulations. Hunner lesions aren't very common and only about 10-15% of patients with IC/BPS show consistent cystoscopic signs. While cystoscopy can help diagnose Hunner's Lesion, the results might not be conclusive for patients without HL.

Can You Have A Normal Cystoscopy Result in IC?

It is indeed possible for you to have a normal cystoscopy, meaning that the lining of the bladder appears normal without any obvious signs of inflammation or damage. However, still experience the symptoms of interstitial cystitis. The reason behind this lies in the complexity of interstitial cystitis itself. Unlike some other medical conditions, IC doesn't always leave clear, visible markers during a cystoscopy. It might be related to the fact that IC could involve deeper layers of the bladder wall or even result from nerve-related issues, which wouldn't be easily detectable through a routine cystoscopy. When faced with a situation where symptoms persist despite a normal cystoscopy, your doctor might include a hydrodistention, which involves filling the bladder to potentially reveal hidden signs of inflammation, to get a more comprehensive view of the bladder.

Endnote:

Patient experiences are really important. It can be frustrating when your cystoscopy results come back normal but you're still feeling pain and discomfort from interstitial cystitis. Talk to your doctor about your concerns. Or else you can contact us. Don't hesitate to reach out for help!

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