Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 6, 2026
06:31
Probe-based Confocal Laser Endomicroscopy of the Urinary Tract: The Technique
Published on: January 10, 2013
Fluorescence cystoscopy: is it ready for use in routine clinical practice?
Philippe E Spiess1, H Barton Grossman
1Department of Urology, University of Texas, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA.
Current Opinion in Urology
|August 15, 2006
Summary
Fluorescence cystoscopy, using new agents, improves bladder cancer detection and lowers recurrence compared to standard methods. This technique shows promise for office-based diagnosis and management of superficial bladder tumors.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Oncology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Bladder cancer diagnosis and management rely on cystoscopy.
- White light cystoscopy has limitations in detecting all tumors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent literature on fluorescence cystoscopy for bladder cancer.
- To assess its role in diagnosis and management.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent studies on fluorescence cystoscopy.
- Evaluation of newer fluorescence agents (hexylester aminolevulinate, hypericin).
- Assessment of flexible fluorescence cystoscopy applications.
Main Results:
- Newer agents and flexible cystoscopy enhance tumor detection.
- Fluorescence cystoscopy shows improved cancer detection rates.
- Lower short-term recurrence rates observed compared to white light cystoscopy.
- Preliminary data suggest utility in office-based procedures.
Conclusions:
- Fluorescence cystoscopy represents a significant advancement.
- Current agents outperform white light cystoscopy in trials.
- Recommended as an adjunctive tool for superficial bladder cancer.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
01:28Urologic Endoscopic Procedure: Cystoscopic Examination
Meaning of Cystoscopic Examination:Cystoscopy is an essential diagnostic tool in urology that is used to assess the structure and function of the genitourinary system. It provides a direct view of the urethra, bladder, and, in some cases, the ureteral openings. This procedure helps detect structural abnormalities, infections, cancers, and blockages in the urinary tract. There are two types of cystoscopy:Flexible cystoscopy is commonly performed in outpatient settings due to its less invasive...
01:22Imaging Studies VI: Voiding Cystourethrography and Cystography
Voiding Cystourethrography (VCUG) and Cystography are specialized radiographic procedures used to examine the structure and function of the bladder and urethra.Voiding Cystourethrography (VCUG)A Voiding Cystourethrogram (VCUG) is a diagnostic imaging procedure that assesses the anatomy and function of the lower urinary tract. It focuses on the bladder, bladder neck, and urethra, helping detect abnormalities such as vesicoureteral reflux (VUR)—the backward or reverse flow of urine into the...
01:22Imaging Studies V: Intravenous Urography and Retrograde Pyelography
IntroductionIntravenous Urography (IVU) and Retrograde Pyelography (RP) are important diagnostic imaging techniques used to evaluate the urinary system. These methods help identify structural abnormalities, obstructions, and functional issues in the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. Both procedures use iodine-based contrast media to enhance the visibility of urinary tract structures on X-ray images, though they differ in their methods and indications.1. Intravenous Urography (IVU)Intravenous...
01:16Confocal Fluorescence Microscopy
Confocal microscopy is an advanced microscopic technique. The prime advantage of the confocal microscope over other microscopy techniques is its ability to block the out-of-focus light from the illuminated samples using pinholes. It is widely used with fluorescence optics to obtain high-resolution, sharp contrast images. Unlike optical microscopes, confocal microscopes use a focused beam of light laser to scan the entire sample surface at different z-planes. These microscopes are, therefore,...
02:07FISH - Fluorescent In-situ Hybridization
Fluorescence in situ hybridization, or FISH, was developed in the early 1980s and has quickly become one of the most widely used techniques in cytogenetics. Labeled probes are used to bind complementary DNA or RNA sequences on a chromosome or in a region within a cell. Earlier, the probes could only be obtained by cloning or reverse transcription of a DNA template. Currently, the probe oligonucleotides can be synthesized synthetically. Additionally, with the advancement of optical techniques,...