RESUMO
A sample of 390 patients with a mean age of 40.4 years presented with hematuria, cystitis or suspected bladder mass were evaluated clinically and by US and urine cytology [voided and irrigation]. The results were compared with those of cystoscopy and bladder biopsy. Bladder tumors were found in 23.5% of all screened patients [SQ. CC 11.8%, TCC 11% and adenocarcinoma 0.8%]. Urine cytology was positive in 17.7% inconclusive in 17.8% and negative in 64.5%. Sensitivity was 86% and specificity 99%. According to tumor type [SQ. CC, TCC and adenocarcinoma] cytology was positive in 58.7%, 88.3% and 100%, respectively. Low grade tumors, especially SQ. CC and voided urine samples give less positive results than high grade tumors and bladder irrigation urine sampling. It is concluded, that urine cytology is sensitive in detecting bladder tumors. Accuracy increases with high risk and symptomatic patients. Frequent screening of the groups is recommended