Final answer:
A mass observed in the bladder on an ultrasound is initially considered cancer, and further diagnostic procedures, such as cytoscopy, biopsy, and advanced imaging, are required to confirm or rule out this diagnosis.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a mass is seen in the bladder on ultrasound (US), it is considered cancer until proven otherwise. To prove otherwise and establish a definitive diagnosis, further diagnostic steps must be taken following the initial ultrasound finding. These steps often include procedures such as a cytoscopy, where a thin camera is inserted through the urethra to visually inspect the bladder. Additionally, a biopsy may be performed during cytoscopy, where a small sample of the mass is taken and examined under a microscope to check for cancer cells. Imaging tests such as CT scans or MRI might also be utilized to get a clearer picture of the mass and determine if the cancer has spread.
It's important to note that while a mass in the bladder can be indicative of bladder cancer, not all masses are malignant, and benign conditions such as bladder stones or benign tumors can also appear as masses on an ultrasound. Only through these additional tests can healthcare providers rule out or confirm the presence of cancer and plan appropriate treatment.