Nocturia: state of the art and critical analysis of current assessment and treatment strategies

G protein-coupled receptor 55 activated by palmitoylethanolamide is associated with the development of nocturia associated with circadian rhythm disorders

AIMS

Bladder function is regulated by clock genes and dysregulation of circadian bladder function can cause nocturia. The blood concentration of palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), a fatty acid metabolite, changes with circadian rhythm. Clock gene abnormalities demonstrate the highest PEA levels during the sleep phase. PEA is a GPR55 agonist that influences urination; therefore, increased PEA during the sleep phase may cause nocturia. Herein, we investigated the function of GPR55 to evaluate the relationship between GPR55 and nocturia that evoked higher PEA during the sleep phase in patients with circadian rhythm disorders.

MAIN METHODS

Male C57BL/6 mice were used. GPR55 localization was evaluated by immunofluorescence staining, qRT-PCR, and western blotting. Variations in PEA-induced intracellular Ca2+ concentrations were measured in primary cultured mouse urothelial cells (UCs) using Ca2+ imaging. PEA-induced NGF and PGI2 release in UCs was measured by ELISA. The micturition reflex pathway after PEA administration was evaluated using immunofluorescence staining.

KEY FINDINGS

GPR55 was predominant in the UC layer. PEA induced release of Ca2+ from the endoplasmic reticulum into the UC cytoplasm. ELISA and immunofluorescence staining revealed that NGF and PGI2 were released from bladder UCs, stimulated the pontine micturition center in mice, and induced nocturia.

SIGNIFICANCE

The loss of regular circadian metabolizing rhythm in fatty acids causes higher blood PEA levels during the sleep phase. Binding of PEA to GPR55 in UC may activate the downstream processes of the micturition reflex, leading to nocturia. These findings suggest a new mechanism for nocturia and its potential as a therapeutic target.

Mapping the global literature output on nocturia: A bibliometric and visualized analysis

PURPOSE

This study aims to facilitate researchers' and clinicians' understanding of research frontiers and trends in nocturia. It explores the scientific research outcomes and key bibliometric indices and plots global research on nocturia.

METHODS

A bibliometric retrospective study was designed, and an online search was conducted in the Web of Science Core Collection database using the potential search keywords related to nocturia in the title field with some specific filtration. HistCite™ and VOSviewer software for windows were used to analyze the data obtained for authors, journals, countries, institutions, keywords, and visualization mapping.

RESULTS

The initial search retrieved 1479 hits. A total of 1445 publications were included in the final analysis. Of these, 43.53% were published as articles. The most studied area in nocturia is urology nephrology. The most productive year was 2019 (n = 121, citations = 335), and the most prolific author, both in terms of publications (n = 97) and citations (1658) was Weiss JP. The most cited journal in nocturia research was the Journal of Urology (n = 293, citations = 3050). The most widely used keyword in nocturia publications was nocturia (n = 1249). Visualization mapping shows that the USA was the most influential and highly cited country in nocturia research.

CONCLUSION

This study showed that there has been an increasing research trend in nocturia over the past few years. The current findings provide important empirical evidence for researchers, clinicians, and physicians to understand research frontiers and trends, achievements, collaborative networks, and hotspot research topics in the research field of nocturia.

The association between nocturia, hormonal symptoms and bladder parameters in women: an observational study

OBJECTIVE

Postmenopausal nocturia is poorly understood. This study aimed to identify hormonal and lifestyle factors associated with nocturia and to understand the relative contribution of altered urine production and bladder storage dysfunction in women.

DESIGN, SETTING, POPULATION AND METHODS

Women ≥40 years presenting to public continence services were enrolled in a cross-sectional study. A total of 153 participants completed a hormone status questionnaire, a validated nocturia causality screening tool and a 3-day bladder diary. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression models for nocturia severity and bladder diary parameters were computed.

RESULTS

Overall, 91.5% reported nocturia, 55% ≥2 /night. There was a difference of 167.5 ml (P < 0.001) in nocturnal urine volume between women with nocturia ≥2 (median 736 ml) versus less often (517 ml). Significant predictors of self-reported disruptive nocturia were age (odds ratio [OR] 1.04, 95% CI 1.002-1.073) and vitamin D supplementation (OR 2.33, 95% CI 1.11-4.91). Nocturnal polyuria was significantly more common with nocturia ≥2 compared with less frequent nocturia (P < 0.002). Exercise for 150 minutes a week was protective for nocturnal polyuria (OR 0.22, P = 0.001). Nocturia index >1.3 was significantly predicted by age (OR 1.07, P < 0.001), regular exercise (OR 0.41, P = 0.036), day flushes (OR 4.00, P = 0.013) and use of vitamin D (OR 2.34, P = 0.043). Maximum voided volumes were significantly lower with nocturia ≥2 versus less often (night: 268 ml versus 350 ml; day: 200 ml versus 290 ml).

CONCLUSIONS

Bothersome nocturia in postmenopausal women is associated with changes to both nocturnal diuresis and bladder storage. Regular physical activity, prolapse reduction and oestrogen replacement may be adjunctive in managing bothersome nocturia in women.

Effects of fatty acid metabolites on nocturia

Dysregulation of circadian rhythm can cause nocturia. Levels of fatty acid metabolites, such as palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), 9-hydroxy-10E,12Z-octadecadienoic acid (9-HODE), and 4-hydroxy-5E,7Z,10Z,13Z,16Z,19Z-docosahexaenoic acid (4-HDoHE), are higher in the serum of patients with nocturia; however, the reason remains unknown. Here, we investigated the circadian rhythm of fatty acid metabolites and their effect on voiding in mice. WT and Clock mutant (ClockΔ19/Δ19) mice, a model for nocturia with circadian rhythm disorder, were used. Levels of serum PEA, 9-HODE, and 4-HDoHEl were measured every 8 h using LC/MS. Voiding pattern was recorded using metabolic cages after administration of PEA, 9-HODE, and 4-HDoHE to WT mice. Levels of serum PEA and 9-HODE fluctuated with circadian rhythm in WT mice, which were lower during the light phase. In contrast, circadian PEA and 9-HODE level deteriorated or retreated in ClockΔ19/Δ19 mice. Levels of serum PEA, 9-HODE, and 4-HDoHE were higher in ClockΔ19/Δ19 than in WT mice. Voiding frequency increased in PEA- and 4-HDoHE-administered mice. Bladder capacity decreased in PEA-administered mice. The changes of these bladder functions in mice were similar to those in elderly humans with nocturia. These findings highlighted the novel effect of lipids on the pathology of nocturia. These may be used for development of biomarkers and better therapies for nocturia.

Effects of consultation for voiding behavior on nocturnal urination status of older adults living alone: A preliminary study

Nocturia and its related arousal may impair the quality of life and increase the risk of falls in older adults. This study aimed to clarify the change in urination status during the main sleeping period within 1 year. We also aimed to examine the effects of a consultation for voiding behavior in addition to the traditional behavioral therapy on urination status during sleep in a group of independent community-dwelling older adults. A single-arm intervention study was conducted in 10 older adults, with a mean age of 80.1 years and nocturia frequency of 1-4 times/day. Natural changes in urination status were observed between 2016 and 2017. Participants received traditional behavioral therapy and a consultation related to voiding behavior four times from summer 2017 to spring 2018. Urination status was monitored using sensing devices placed in the participant's home. The average time staying in the toilet significantly increased after 1 year. Although this parameter significantly decreased after the first consultation in 2017, this change was not observed with the subsequent consultation. A combination of traditional behavioral therapy and consultation for voiding behavior may be effective in improving urination status during the main sleeping period.

Prevalence and characteristics of incident falls related to nocturnal toileting in hospitalized patients

Objectives: Although nocturia is a risk factor for incident falls in the community, studies are required to gain an understanding of incident falls related to nocturnal toileting in hospitals. The aim of this study is to describe the prevalence and characteristics of incident falls in adult hospitalized patients related to nocturnal toileting.Methods: A retrospective review of the electronic incident reporting and learning system and medical records of inpatients that had an incident fall.Results: The prevalence of toileting-related incident falls was 53% (73/137) and 28% of all incident falls were related to nocturnal toileting.Intravenous fluid infusion was associated with falls related to toileting, whereby median perfusion volume during night-time was 375 ml [IQR: 225-578 ml].Conclusions: The prevalence of nocturnal toileting-related incident falls in hospitals is high. Nocturia could be a leading cause of these incident falls. Intravenous fluid infusion might be part of the aetiology of (iatrogenic) nocturia.

Desmopressin treatment for nocturia caused by nocturnal polyuria: practical guidelines

Introduction

Desmopressin is an effective and safe therapy for nocturia caused by nocturnal polyuria. However, many physicians are unsure about the proper diagnosis of nocturnal polyuria and the identification of patients who may benefit from desmopressin treatment. Therefore, to support urologists in their routine clinical practice, the aim of this study was to provide a comprehensive paradigm for diagnosing nocturnal polyuria with recommendations for the use of desmopressin.

Material and methods

A multidisciplinary group of experts reviewed the available literature. Findings were compiled into a practice-based approach for workup and treatment.

Results

We designed the nocturia diagnostic pathway to confirm nocturnal polyuria, identify possible causes of nocturnal polyuria, and classify patients with indications and contraindications for desmopressin therapy. A bladder diary remains a basic diagnostic tool. Underlying conditions that may lead to nocturnal polyuria include mainly cardiac insufficiency, arterial hypertension, chronic kidney failure, obstructive sleep apnea, peripheral edema, and excessive fluid intake at night. Treatment for nocturia caused by nocturnal polyuria is based on conservative management and pharmacotherapy, but pharmacological treatment should not precede a prior attempt at conservative treatment. Before administration of desmopressin, patients should be assessed for serum sodium concentration and carefully educated about the symptoms of hyponatremia. Older individuals or persons with risk factors for the development of hyponatremia should be checked regularly for hyponatremia during desmopressin therapy.

Conclusions

People with nocturia due to nocturnal polyuria should be evaluated carefully before initiating desmopressin treatment. Patients treated with desmopressin should be followed for both clinical efficacy and treatment-related adverse effects.

Can we predict the success of prostatic surgery for male lower urinary tract symptoms: ICI-RS 2018?

AIMS

Male lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are common and bothersome symptoms in the aging population, of which the etiology is multifactorial. Prostatic surgery may be considered to alleviate some of these LUTS, especially in patients in which benign prostatic obstruction is believed to be the underlying cause. The aim of this paper is to discuss underlying pathophysiology, signs, and conditions that may lead to success or failure after prostatic surgery in male patients with LUTS.

METHODS

The paper is a report of presentations and subsequent discussions at the annual International Consultation on Incontinence Research Society, in June 2018 in Bristol.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

Unfavorable outcomes after prostatic surgery are reported in 25% to 30% of the patients. This may be due to persistent or de novo symptoms, related to the multifactorial origin of symptoms. Specific underlying conditions such as with detrusor overactivity, detrusor underactivity, and nocturnal polyuria are discussed in their relationship with prostatic surgery. Knowledge gaps are addressed and specific research questions proposed.

How can we develop a more clinically useful and robust algorithm for diagnosing and treating nocturia? ICI-RS 2017

AIMS

Nocturia, or waking up at night to void, is a highly prevalent and bothersome symptom. Currently, there is a lack of clear and consistent recommendations regarding evaluation and management of nocturia. The aim of this report is to discuss how to fill the gaps in our knowledge in order to develop a practical patient-oriented diagnostic and therapeutic algorithm for nocturia.

METHODS

This paper is a report of the presentations and subsequent discussion of a Think Tank session at the annual International Consultation on Incontinence Research Society (ICI-RS) in June 2017 in Bristol.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

Further investigations are needed to better understand the pathophysiology of nocturia, to allow improvement in diagnosis, and to optimize treatment by increasing efficacy and reducing adverse events. Patient-oriented practical guidelines on nocturia are needed to help clinicians from different disciplines diagnose and treat nocturia.

Emerging drugs to target lower urinary tract symptomatology (LUTS)/benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH): focus on the prostate

OBJECTIVES

The benign prostatic syndrome, comprising lower urinary tract symptomatology secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia/enlargement, represents a major health care issue in westernized countries. The pharmacological management involves alpha-adrenoceptor antagonists, intervention into the hormonal control of prostate growth using inhibitors of the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, and stimulation of the nitric oxide/cyclic GMP pathway by tadalafil, an inhibitor of the phosphodiesterase type 5.

METHODS

This review summarizes the achievements which have been made in the development of drug candidates assumed to offer opportunities as beneficial treatment options in the management of the benign prostatic syndrome.

RESULTS

A review of the literature has revealed that the line of development is focusing on drugs interfering with peripheral neuromuscular/neuronal mechanisms (nitric oxide donor drugs, agonists/antagonists of endogenous peptides, botulinum toxin, NX-1207), the steroidal axis (cetrorelix) or the metabolic turn-over (lonidamine), as well as the combination of drugs already established in the treatment of lower urinary tract symptomatology/benign prostatic hyperplasia (phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitor plus alpha-adrenoceptor antagonist).

CONCLUSION

Many research efforts have provided the basis for the development of new therapeutic modalities for the management of lower urinary tract dysfunctions, some of which might be offered to the patients in the near future.

Intermittent restraint stress induces circadian misalignment in the mouse bladder, leading to nocturia

Intermittent stress disrupts the circadian rhythm in clock genes such as Per2 only in peripheral organs without any effect on the central circadian clock in the suprachiasmatic nucleus. Here, the effect of restraint stress (RS) on circadian bladder function was investigated based on urination behavior and gene expression rhythms. Furthermore, PF670462 (PF), a Per2 phosphorylation enzyme inhibitor, was administered to investigate the effects on circadian bladder re-alignment after RS. Two-hour RS during the light (sleep) phase was applied to mice (RS mice) for 5 days. The following parameters were then examined: urination behaviors; clock gene expression rhythms and urinary sensory-related molecules such as piezo type mechanosensitive ion channel component 1 (Piezo1), transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 4 (TRPV4), and Connexin26 (Cx26) in the bladder mucosa; Per2 expression in the excised bladder of Per2^luciferase knock-in mice (Per2::luc); in vivo Per2 expression rhythms in the bladder of Per2::luc mice. Control mice did not show altered urination behavior in the light phase, whereas RS mice exhibited a higher voiding frequency and lower bladder capacity. In the bladder mucosa, RS mice also showed abrogated or misaligned Piezo1, TRPV4, Connexin26, and clock gene expression. The rhythmic expression of Per2 was also altered in RS mice both in excised- and in vivo bladder, compared with control mice. After PF administration, voiding frequency was reduced and bladder capacity was increased during the light phase in RS mice; the in vivo Per2 expression rhythm was also fully restored. Therefore, RS can alter circadian gene expression in the bladder during the light phase and might cause nocturia via changes in circadian bladder function due the dysregulation of clock genes. Amending the circadian rhythm therapeutically could be applied for nocturia.

The time-dependent variation of ATP release in mouse primary-cultured urothelial cells is regulated by the clock gene

AIMS

The sensation of bladder fullness (SBF) is triggered by the release of ATP. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate whether time-dependent changes in the levels of stretch-released ATP in mouse primary-cultured urothelial cells (MPCUCs) is regulated by circadian rhythm via clock genes.

METHODS

MPCUCs were derived from wild-type and Clock mutant mice (Clock^Δ19/Δ19 ), presenting a nocturia phenotype. They were cultured in elastic silicone chambers. Stretch-released ATP was quantified every 4 h by ATP photon count. An experiment was also performed to determine whether ATP release correlated with the rhythm of the expression of Piezo1, TRPV4, VNUT, and Connexin26 (Cx26) in MPCUCs regulated by clock genes with circadian rhythms. MPCUCs were treated with carbenoxolone, an inhibitor of gap junction protein; were derived from VNUT-KO mice; or treated with Piezo1-siRNA, TRPV4-siRNA, and Cx26-siRNA.

RESULTS

Stretch-released ATP showed time-dependent changes in wild-type mice and correlated with the rhythm of the expression of Piezo1, TRPV4, VNUT, and Cx26. However, these rhythms were disrupted in Clock^Δ19/Δ19 mice. Carbenoxolone eliminated the rhythmicity of ATP release in wild-type mice. However, time-dependent ATP release changes were maintained when a single gene was deficient such as VNUT-KO, Piezo1-, TRPV4-, and Cx26-siRNA.

CONCLUSIONS

ATP release in the bladder urothelium induces SBF and may have a circadian rhythm regulated by the clock genes. In the bladder urothelium, clock gene abnormalities may disrupt circadian ATP release by inducing Piezo1, TRPV4, VNUT, and Cx26. All these genes can trigger nocturia.

Efficacy and safety of daily mirabegron 50 mg in male patients with overactive bladder: a critical analysis of five phase III studies

BACKGROUND

Oral pharmacotherapies to treat overactive bladder (OAB) are used less in men despite a similar prevalence of storage symptoms as women. The efficacy and safety of once-daily mirabegron 50 mg was evaluated in male OAB patients from five phase III studies that included placebo or antimuscarinic (tolterodine ER 4 mg or solifenacin 5 mg) as a comparator.

METHODS

Three pooled 12-week placebo-controlled studies (mirabegron 50 mg versus placebo) and one 12-week non-inferiority phase IIIb study (BEYOND; mirabegron 50 mg versus solifenacin 5 mg) were used for efficacy (daily micturition frequency, urgency and incontinence episodes) and safety analyses. An additional 52-week active-controlled phase III safety study (mirabegron 50 mg versus tolterodine ER 4 mg) was included in the safety analysis. Male patients aged ⩾18 years with OAB for ⩾3 months were included in the analyses. Patients may also have a history of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)/benign prostatic enlargement (BPE) or concomitant use of α1-blockers.

RESULTS

In the pooled studies, mirabegron 50 mg demonstrated superiority versus placebo (treatment difference: -0.37 [95% confidence interval (CI): -0.74, -0.01]) for reducing micturition frequency; improvements in urgency and incontinence were not significantly different between mirabegron 50 mg and placebo. In BEYOND, mirabegron 50 mg was comparable with solifenacin 5 mg for reducing micturition frequency, urgency, and incontinence episodes. Mirabegron was well tolerated at 12 and 52 weeks and overall treatment-emergent adverse events (AEs) were similar to those with placebo.

CONCLUSIONS

In a male OAB population with or without LUTS associated with BPH/BPE, mirabegron 50 mg provided similar improvements in urgency, frequency, and incontinence as solifenacin 5 mg, and is a well-tolerated alternative to antimuscarinics. In the three pooled 12-week studies, significant differences were not seen for urgency and incontinence versus placebo, although mirabegron 50 mg did demonstrate significant improvements versus placebo for frequency.

A practical approach to the management of nocturia

AIM

To raise awareness on nocturia disease burden and to provide simplified aetiologic evaluation and related treatment pathways.

METHODS

A multidisciplinary group of nocturia experts developed practical advice and recommendations based on the best available evidence supplemented by their own experiences.

RESULTS

Nocturia is defined as the need to void ≥1 time during the sleeping period of the night. Clinically relevant nocturia (≥2 voids per night) affects 2%-18% of those aged 20-40 years, rising to 28%-62% for those aged 70-80 years. Consequences include the following: lowered quality of life; falls and fractures; reduced work productivity; depression; and increased mortality. Nocturia-related hip fractures alone cost approximately €1 billion in the EU and $1.5 billion in the USA in 2014. The pathophysiology of nocturia is multifactorial and typically related to polyuria (either global or nocturnal), reduced bladder capacity or increased fluid intake. Accurate assessment is predicated on frequency-volume charts combined with a detailed patient history, medicine review and physical examination. Optimal treatment should focus on the underlying cause(s), with lifestyle modifications (eg, reducing evening fluid intake) being the first intervention. For patients with sustained bother, medical therapies should be introduced; low-dose, gender-specific desmopressin has proven effective in nocturia due to idiopathic nocturnal polyuria. The timing of diuretics is an important consideration, and they should be taken mid-late afternoon, dependent on the specific serum half-life. Patients not responding to these basic treatments should be referred for specialist management.

CONCLUSIONS

The cause(s) of nocturia should be first evaluated in all patients. Afterwards, the underlying pathophysiology should be treated specifically, alone with lifestyle interventions or in combination with drugs or (prostate) surgery.

Desmopressin for treating nocturia in men

BACKGROUND

Nocturia is the bothersome symptom of awakening one or more times per night to void. Desmopressin is a commonly used medication for treating nocturia.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effects of desmopressin as compared to other interventions in the treatment of nocturia in men.

SEARCH METHODS

We performed a comprehensive search of medical literature with no restrictions on the language of publication or publication status. The date of the latest search of all databases was August 2017.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomized or quasi-randomized trials. Inclusion criteria were men with nocturia defined as one or more voids per night. Trials of children, adults with primary or secondary enuresis or underlying distinct disorders were excluded.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently classified studies and abstracted data from the included studies. We performed statistical analyses using a random-effects model and interpreted data according to the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 14 studies with 2966 randomized men across five comparisons. Desmopressin versus placebo: based on short-term follow-up (up to three months), desmopressin may have a similar effect on the number of nocturnal voids (mean difference (MD) -0.46, 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.94 to 0.01; low-quality evidence). We are uncertain about the effect of desmopressin on major adverse events at short-term follow-up (risk ratio (RR) 0.97, 95% CI 0.10 to 9.03; very low-quality evidence). For intermediate-term follow-up (three to 12 months), desmopressin may reduce the number of nocturnal voids in an appreciable number of participants (MD -0.85, 95% CI -1.17 to -0.53; low-quality evidence). Desmopressin may result in little or no difference in major adverse events at intermediate-term follow-up (RR 3.05, 95% CI 0.13 to 73.39; low-quality evidence). We found no evidence on quality of life. Subgroup analyses suggest a larger effect with oral, higher-dose formulations of desmopressin and in men with documented nocturnal polyuria. Desmopressin versus behavior modification: there were no data regarding the effect on the number of nocturnal voids, quality of life, or major adverse events. Desmopressin versus alpha-blocker: based on short-term follow-up, desmopressin likely has a similar effect on the number of nocturnal voids (MD 0.30, 95% CI -0.20 to 0.80; moderate-quality evidence) and quality of life (MD 0.00, 95% CI -0.35 to 0.35; moderate-quality evidence). There were no major adverse events in either study group. Desmopressin plus alpha-blocker versus alpha-blocker alone: based on short-term follow-up, combination therapy likely results in a small, unimportant reduction in the number of nocturnal voids (MD -0.47, 95% CI -0.73 to -0.21; moderate-quality evidence) and quality of life (MD -0.29, 95% CI -0.51 to -0.07; moderate-quality evidence). The risk of major adverse events may be similar (RR 0.30, 95% CI 0.01 to 7.32; low-quality evidence). Desmopressin plus alpha-blocker versus alpha-blocker plus an anticholinergic: based on short-term follow-up, combination therapy likely results in little or no difference in the number of nocturnal voids (MD -0.43, 95% CI -0.97 to 0.11; moderate-quality evidence). We found no evidence on quality of life. There were no major adverse events in either study group.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Desmopressin may reduce the number of nocturnal voids in an appreciable number of participants compared to placebo in intermediate-term (three to 12 months) follow-up without increase in major adverse events. We found no evidence to compare its effects to behavior modification. The effect on the number of nocturnal voids is likely similar to that of alpha-blockers short-term with very infrequent major adverse events. There appears to be no added benefit in the combined use of desmopressin with an alpha-blocker or an anticholinergic. The findings of this review were limited by short-term follow-up, study limitations, and imprecision.

Sleep Problems are Associated with Development and Progression of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms: Results from REDUCE

PURPOSE

Although lower urinary tract symptoms and sleep problems often develop together, to our knowledge it is unknown whether sleep disturbances are linked to lower urinary tract symptoms development and progression. As measured by the 6-item MOS-Sleep (Medical Outcomes Study Sleep Scale) survey we examined the relationship between sleep problems, and the development and progression of lower urinary tract symptoms in the REDUCE (Reduction by Dutasteride of Prostate Cancer Events) study.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

REDUCE was a randomized trial testing prostate cancer chemoprevention with dutasteride in men with prostate specific antigen 2.5 to 10 ng/ml and a negative biopsy. At baseline men completed MOS-Sleep and a scaled average was used to calculate the sleep score. Men were followed for 4 years and I-PSS (International Prostate Symptom Score) was completed at baseline and every 6 months. Asymptomatic men had I-PSS less than 8 while symptomatic men had I-PSS 8 or greater. In the placebo arm of 2,588 men not receiving α-blockers or 5α-reductase inhibitors at baseline we tested the association between sleep problems and lower urinary tract symptom development and progression using Cox models.

RESULTS

During followup lower urinary tract symptoms developed in 209 of 1,452 asymptomatic men (14%) and 580 of 1,136 (51%) with lower urinary tract symptoms demonstrated progression. On multivariable analysis higher sleep scores were suggestively associated with increased lower urinary tract symptoms in asymptomatic men (quartile 4 vs 1 HR 1.41, 95% CI 0.92-2.17, p = 0.12) and with lower urinary tract symptom progression in symptomatic men (per 10 points of sleep score HR 1.06, 95% CI 1.01-1.12, p = 0.029).

CONCLUSIONS

Among men with lower urinary tract symptoms worse sleep scores were associated with the progression of lower urinary tract symptoms and among asymptomatic men worse sleep scores were suggestively associated with the development of lower urinary tract symptoms. If confirmed, these data suggest that sleep problems may precede such symptoms. Whether treating sleep problems would improve lower urinary tract symptoms requires further testing.

TANGO - a screening tool to identify comorbidities on the causal pathway of nocturia

OBJECTIVES

To develop a robust screening metric for use in identifying non-lower urinary tract comorbidities pertinent to the multidisciplinary assessment of patients with nocturia.

METHODS

Variables having a significant risk association with nocturia of greater than once per night were identified. Discriminating items from validated and reliable tools measuring these comorbidities were identified. A self-completed 57-item questionnaire was developed and a medical checklist and pertinent clinical measures added. Pre-determined criteria were applied to retain or remove items in the development of the Short-Form (SF) screening tool. The tool was administered to 252 individuals with nocturia who were attending either a tertiary level Sleep, Continence, Falls or Rehabilitation service for routine care. Data collected were subjected to descriptive analysis; criteria were applied to reduce the number of items. Using pre-determined domains, a nocturia screening metric, entitled TANGO, was generated. The acronym TANGO stands for Targeting the individual's Aetiology of Nocturia to Guide Outcomes.

RESULTS

The demographic characteristics of the sample are described, along with item endorsement levels. The statistical and structural framework to justify deleting or retaining of items from the TANGO Long-Form to the SF is presented. The resultant TANGO-SF patient-completed nocturia screening tool is reported.

CONCLUSIONS

A novel all-cause diagnostic metric for identifying co-existing morbidities of clinical relevance to nocturia in patients who present across disciplines and medical specialties has been developed. TANGO has the potential to improve practice and smooth inequalities associated with a siloed approach to assessment and subsequent care of patients with nocturia.

Clock Genes Regulate the Circadian Expression of Piezo1, TRPV4, Connexin26, and VNUT in an Ex Vivo Mouse Bladder Mucosa

Objectives

Clock^Δ19/Δ19 mice is an experimental model mouse for nocturia (NOC). Using the bladder mucosa obtained from Clock^Δ19/Δ19 mice, we investigated the gene expression rhythms of mechanosensory cation channels such as transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 4 (TRPV4) and Piezo1, and main ATP release pathways including vesicular nucleotide transporter (VNUT) and Connexin26(Cx26), in addition to clock genes.

Materials and methods

Eight- to twelve-week-old male C57BL/6 mice (WT) and age- and sex-matched C57BL/6 Clock^Δ19/Δ19 mice, which were bred under 12-h light/dark conditions for 2 weeks, were used. Gene expression rhythms and transcriptional regulation mechanisms in clock genes, mechanosensor, Cx26 and VNUT were measured in the mouse bladder mucosa, collected every 4 hours from WT and Clock^Δ19/Δ19 mice using quantitative RT-PCR, a Western blot analysis, and ChIP assays.

Results

WT mice showed circadian rhythms in clock genes as well as mechanosensor, Cx26 and VNUT. Their expression was low during the sleep phase. The results of ChIP assays showed Clock protein binding to the promotor regions and the transcriptional regulation of mechanosensor, Cx26 and VNUT. In contrast, all of these circadian expressions were disrupted in Clock^Δ19/Δ19 mice. The gene expression of mechanosensor, Cx26 and VNUT was maintained at a higher level in spite of the sleep phase.

Conclusions

Mechanosensor, Cx26 and VNUT expressed with circadian rhythm in the mouse bladder mucosa. The disruption of circadian rhythms in these genes, induced by the abnormalities in clock genes, may be factors contributing to NOC because of hypersensitivity to bladder wall extension.

Nocturia is often inadequately assessed, diagnosed and treated by physicians: results of an observational, real-life practice database containing 8659 European and US-American patients

AIMS

The aim of this study was to investigate the quality and timing of the diagnosis and treatment of nocturia in real-life practice in European and US-American patients to obtain better insights into the management of nocturia in different Western healthcare systems.

METHODS

Data were drawn from the "LUTS Disease Specific Programme," a real-life survey of physicians and patients in France, Germany, Spain, UK and the USA. Physicians completed a patient record form for lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) patients. Patients filled out a self-completion form, indicating - among other items - information on the mean number of day- and night-time voids during the last 7 days, and questions on the management of LUTS in daily practice.

RESULTS

In total, 8659 patients were analysed. The majority of patients initially consulted a physician because of worsening of LUTS frequency (43%-58%) or severity (44%-55%). Only 37% of all LUTS diagnoses, regardless of the appearance or severity of nocturia, were based on bladder diaries. Patients took approximately 1 year to consult a medical professional following the onset of LUTS. At the initial visit, most patients received advice on behavioural strategies. Regardless the type of LUTS and physician, 59% of men received α-blockers and 76% of women antimuscarinics.

CONCLUSIONS

Data show that patients with nocturia and LUTS accept their symptoms for a considerable period before they seek help or ultimately receive treatment. They may therefore be enduring significant negative impact on their quality-of-life which could be avoided. Physicians rarely use bladder diaries and primarily use antimuscarinics (women) or α-blockers (men). Improved awareness of nocturia among patients and physicians could improve the management of nocturia.

Bladder Instillation Therapy With Hyaluronic Acid and Chondroitin Sulfate Improves Symptoms of Postradiation Cystitis: Prospective Pilot Study

BACKGROUND

After radiotherapy (RT) for prostate cancer (PCa), several patients reported lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) due to damage and discontinuation of the glycosaminoglycan layer of the bladder. Instillation of hyaluronic acid and chondroitin sulfate (HA-CS) represents replenishment therapy of the glycosaminoglycan layer. The aim of the study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of HA-CS in men with symptomatic cystitis after RT for PCa.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eighty consecutive men were treated with RT for PCa; 30 of these (37.5%) reported clinically relevant LUTS and associated bother as measured by the Interstitial Cystitis Symptom Index and Problem Index (ICSI/ICPI) Questionnaire 3 months after RT. Symptomatic patients received instillation therapy with HA-CS weekly for the first month and then at weeks 6, 8, and 12. All patients completed the ICSI/ICPI questionnaire before and after RT and at the end of HA-CS treatment.

RESULTS

HA-CS significantly reduced postradiation LUTS (P < .001) and bother (P = .006). Age, Gleason score, and radiation dose were the main determinants of worsening of LUTS after radiation (ICSI score baseline vs. postradiation: P = .047, .043, and .023). In multivariate analysis, only age influenced LUTS worsening after RT (P = .01). Age, radiation dose, and radiation toxicity were related to recovery of LUTS (ICSI score postradiation vs. post-HA-CS P = .041, P = .050, and P = .046). In multivariate analysis, no factor was statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

A remarkable worsening of symptoms and bother was observed after RT. HA-CS instillation is a safe treatment and resulted in an improvement of LUTS irrespective of age and clinical features, with full recovery of urinary bother.

Impact of cardiovascular risk factors and related comorbid conditions and medical therapy reported at baseline on the treatment response to tadalafil 5 mg once-daily in men with lower urinary tract symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia: an integrated analysis of four randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, clinical trials

PURPOSE

The influence of cardiovascular risk factors/comorbidities on response to oral once-daily tadalafil 5 mg was explored in men with lower urinary tract symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (LUTS/BPH).

METHODS

This post hoc analysis pooled data from four double-blind studies in which 1498 men with > 6-mo history of LUTS/BPH were randomised and received either once-daily placebo (n = 746) or tadalafil 5 mg (n = 752) for 12 weeks. Descriptive statistics were reported for changes in total International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), IPSS voiding and storage subscores, and IPSS quality-of-life (QoL) index. Treatment group differences by baseline clinical and cardiovascular factors and medical therapies were examined using analysis of covariance.

RESULTS

Tadalafil was effective in men with LUTS/BPH and cardiovascular risk factors/comorbidities except for patients receiving > 1 antihypertensive medication. Placebo-adjusted least squares (LS) mean improvements in total IPSS were -1.2 (95% CI: -2.5 to -0.0) in men taking > 1 antihypertensive medication vs. -3.3 (95% CI: -4.4 to -2.1) in men taking one medication (interaction p = 0.020). In addition, placebo-adjusted LS mean improvements in total IPSS were -0.2 (95% CI, -2.1 to 1.7) in men who reported use of diuretics vs. -2.8 (95% CI, -3.7 to -1.9) in men who reported taking other antihypertensive medications vs. -2.3 (95% CI, -3.2 to -1.5) in men who reported not using any antihypertensive drug (p-value for interaction = 0.053).

CONCLUSIONS

Once-daily tadalafil 5 mg improved LUTS/BPH, regardless of severity, in men with coexisting cardiovascular risk factors/comorbidities, except for patients with history of > 1 drug for arterial hypertension. Use of diuretics may contribute to patients' perception of a negated efficacy of tadalafil on LUTS/BPH. Comorbidities should be considered when choosing the optimal medicine to treat men with LUTS/BPH.

Sodium hyaluronate and chondroitin sulfate replenishment therapy can improve nocturia in men with post-radiation cystitis: results of a prospective pilot study

Background

Radiotherapy is one of the treatment options for prostate cancer (PCa) but up to 25 % of men report about severe nocturia (nocturnal voiding). The combination of hyaluronic acid (HA) and chondroitin sulfate (CS) resembles glycosaminoglycan (GAG) replenishment therapy. The aim of our study was to evaluate the impact of HA and CS on nocturia, in men with nocturia after PCa radiotherapy.

Methods

Twenty-three consecutive patients with symptomatic cystitis after external radiotherapy for PCa were enrolled. Patients underwent bladder instillation therapy with HA and CS weekly for the first month and, afterwards, on week 6, 8 and 12. Nocturnal voiding frequency was assessed by item 3 (Q3) of the Interstitial Cystitis Symptoms Index (ICSI) and item 2 (Q2) of the Interstitial Cystitis Problem Index (ICPI). Data were analyzed with paired-samples T-test and adjusted for age.

Results

Eighteen patients (78 %) reported about nocturia. Pre- and post-treatment ICSI-Q3 was 2.13 ± 0.28 and 1.61 ± 0.21 (−24.4 %, p = 0.001). With logistic regression analysis, both age and baseline ICSI-Q3 had a significant impact on nocturnal voiding frequency (r = 0.293, p = 0.011 and r = 0.970, p < 0.001). Pre- and post-treatment ICPI-Q2 was 1.87 ± 0.26 and 1.30 ± 0.25 (−30.5 %, p = 0.016); logistic regression analysis was without significant findings.

Conclusion

Bladder instillation treatment with a combination of HA and CS was effective in reducing nocturnal voiding frequency in men with post-radiation bladder pain for PCa. Randomized, controlled trials with sham treatment are needed to confirm our result.

Combination therapies for the management of nocturia and its comorbidities

Nocturia is the most bothersome lower urinary tract symptom. It has a multifactorial etiology. It had been thought nocturia was a nonspecific symptom of lower urinary system dysfunction, but it has been determined that many diseases, related to different organ systems, might be reasons for this nonspecific symptom. Along with the importance of systemic diseases that cause nocturia, the symptom itself has adverse effects on patients’ health and quality of life. There are several studies reporting a direct relationship between nocturia and depression, cognitive dysfunction, mood disturbances, falls, and fractures. For this reason, it is important to treat nocturia both to increase quality of life and to decrease related complications. Treatment opportunities have been under investigation for 20 years. Most of the studies in the literature have reported the results of single-drug medication on nocturia, which may be insufficient for a situation that has such a multifactorial etiology. In this review, we evaluated the success of different treatment combinations on nocturia.