FISH testing for bladder cancer
I got a positive FISH test in December. Dr. ordered another FISH, cystoscopy and CT scans. All were negative. Fast forward to July. I got another positive FISH test. I have another cystoscopy scheduled in two weeks (Dr. is on vacation). The first positive test ruined my holiday, the second is ruining my summer. Are these tests accurate? Some institutions use them and others do not.
@Brevy - I have not had a Fish test but have read that they are more accurate than regular cytology. But- can you tell us why you were given the testing originally? Have you had bladder cancer symptoms? Are you having a 6 month follow up possibly? It is difficult to not have your mind go to the worst case scenario but from my opinion it appears that your doctor has determined that a follow up would be advantageous for you. Maybe the better be safe than sorry. Please take it as a way to hopefully obtain more information and try not to let it ruin your summer. Please keep us updated on how things go and we will be praying for good results. My best. Linda ( moderator, Bladdercancer.net team member)
Thank you Linda for writing back. I went to the urologist on the recommendation of my GYN who noted blood in my urine sample. She strongly suggested I see a urologist and it took me a long time to get up the courage to do so. I like this urologist and feel he has my best interest so off to another cystoscopy. This will be my third. Thank you for your prayers.
@Brevy I am pleased to hear that your GYN found the blood in your urine enough of a concern to look into. I agree that your urologist is looking out for your best interests and may just be doing a follow up to see if there have been changes from the prior cystos. I know that doctors do tests to have a baseline and then do follow ups to look for any changes or not changes. Fingers crossed that all will be well. I think you are fortunate to have medical people following up with you. Keep us posted. My best Linda ( moderator, Bladdercancer.net team member)
I like this doctor very much. Thank you Linda. I am grateful for my health insurance. I wish everyone had as many options as I. Doctors save lives.
@Brevy - having a doctor who you are happy with, who takes the time to clearly discuss things and is available to you when you need him/her is very important while fighting a disease like this. Good luck to you and keep us posted on how things are. My best. Linda ( moderator, Bladdercancer.net team member)
