Why did my mother's bladder biopsy show atypical cells?

The term "atypical cells" often describes cells that look abnormal when viewed with a microscope, but that do not fit into any specific category. They do not show changes that could be called cancerous. However, they might turn into cancerous cells in the future. Or they could mean that cancerous cells are close by.

Figuring out what it means to find atypical cells on a biopsy of the lining of the bladder is especially challenging. It's possible that inflammation of the bladder wall or a low-grade infection is causing the cells to look atypical.

Your mother will need to continue to see her urologist for periodic check-ups. (This specialist focuses on the bladder and performs bladder biopsies.)

Even if her urine becomes clear with no more red blood cells, and other tests on the urine are normal, she should still ask her urologist if at least one more look inside is needed in the future. (By the way, irritation of the lining of the bladder from any cause can allow red blood cells to leak into the urine.)

Finally, smoking is a major risk factor for bladder cancer. If your mother smokes, she needs to stop immediately.