Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP): This is done to outline the two kidneys, the bladder and the two ureters that connect the kidneys with the ureters.
In order to do this, not only is the contrast needed to fill these organs, but the whole of the intestine needs to be cleared and cleaned so that, their shadow does not mask the picture of the urinary tract.
Patient takes laxatives for two days before the test so as to clean the intestines. The liquid contrast medium is injected into the vein at the forearm. Mixed with the blood, this material appears first in the kidneys, then the ureters and then the bladder. A series of X-rays are taken of the abdomen, starting 5 minutes after the injection and up to one hour.
These X-rays reveal the outline of the kidneys, ureters and the bladder, and also tell the abnormality or obstruction in its parts.
CT Scan: The kidneys are easily examined in radiographic slices of the body, produced by computed X-ray tomography.
Isotope Scan: The special isotope is injected into the vein, and scanning done over the kidney, which reveals any abnormality that may be present in it. It may take about two hours to complete the test.
Ultrasound Scan: The kidneys and their gross structure are relatively easily demonstrated by ultrasound examination.
Renal Biopsy: By means of a special needle inserted from the back, biopsy is taken from the kidney and examined histologically. Considerable skill is required. There is a small but definite risk to the patient.
Renal biopsy examination clinches the diagnosis of the disease he is suffering from.