Indication of cystoscopy in patients with asymptomatic microscopic haematuria

To establish the appropriate indication of cystoscopy in patients with asymptomatic microscopic haematuria, we reviewed 263 cases with positive reaction for urinary dipstick test on annual health screening examination. On initial examination, 18 highly significant lesions, 52 moderately significant lesions and 38 insignificant lesions were detected. No underlying lesion could be found in 96 patients and no microscopic haematuria in 59 patients. However, bladder cancers were detected in only 8 (3.0%) cases. All patients with bladder cancer were older than 40 years. These facts suggest that cystoscopy is not necessary for patients with a single microscopic haematuria and those younger than 40 years.