How accurate is CT scan for bladder cancer?

An additional test that is used during the workup and evaluation of bladder cancer is a CT scan, or a CAT scan. While a CT scan can detect larger bladder tumors, it is not sensitive enough to detect small tumors or flat tumors in the bladder. CT is most useful to evaluate the kidneys and ureters and the area around the bladder and lymph nodes, as well as evaluate other organs in the body. The cystoscope is what we use to look inside of the bladder. The combination of a CT scan and cystoscopy are used to evaluate the entire urinary tract. This is important because approximately 5% of patients with tumors in their bladder may also have tumors in their ureter or kidney.