Diagnosis

There is no definitive test to identify IC/BPS, doctors must rule out other treatable conditions before considering a diagnosis of IC/BPS.

Diagnosing IC/BPS

Because IC/BPS symptoms are similar to those of other disorders of the bladder and there is no definitive test to identify IC/BPS, doctors must rule out other treatable conditions before considering a diagnosis of IC/BPS. The most common of these diseases in both sexes are urinary tract cancer and bladder cancer. In men, common diseases include chronic prostatitis or chronic pelvic pain syndrome. IC/BPS is not associated with any increased risk of developing cancer.

The diagnosis of IC/BPS is based on the

  • presence of pain related to the bladder, usually accompanied by frequency and urgency
  • absence of other diseases that could cause the symptoms

Once other conditions are excluded, patients with characteristic signs and symptoms generally are treated for presumed IC/BPS. In certain circumstances, some clinicians may choose to evaluate further, with cystoscopy with hydrodistention under general anesthesia, or with urodynamic studies, or lidocaine instillation.

Learn more about diagnostic testing and how to talk with your doctor about IC/BPS:

Initial Evaluation for IC/BPS

  • Talking with Your Doctor About IC
  • Potassium Chloride Sensitivity Test

Diagnosing Complicated IC/BPS Cases

  • Cystoscopy with Hydrodistention
  • Urodynamic Testing
  • Promising IC/BPS Diagnostic Tests

Wrong Diagnosis