Detrusor instability in men: correlation of lower urinary tract symptoms with urodynamic findings

Multi-omic approaches provide insights into the molecular mechanisms of Sojae semen germinatum water extract against overactive bladder

Sojae semen germinatum (SSG) is derived from mature soybean seeds that have been germinated and dried, typically with sprouts measuring approximately 0.5 cm in length. SSG is traditionally known for its properties in clearing heat and moisture. Nevertheless, limited information was reported on the effects and mechanisms of SSG in alleviating urinary symptoms. This study employed urodynamic parameters to investigate the therapeutic effect of SSG water extract on overactive bladder (OAB) in the rat model with benign prostatic hyperplasia. Through a combination of transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses, the pathways and key proteins of the SSG treatment for OAB were identified and validated by ELISA and Western blotting. Furthermore, network pharmacology elucidated the roles of SSG's isoflavones acting on the target which was identified by above-mentioned multi-omics analysis. Our results indicate that SSG water extract significantly mitigated OAB by down-regulating the PGE2/EP1/PLCβ2/p-MLC signaling pathway. It was speculated that the active ingredient in the SSG on EP1 was genistein. This study provided valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms of SSG water extract, emphasizing the multi-target characteristics and critical pathways in improving OAB. Furthermore, this study contributes to the potential utilization of SSG as a functional food.

The Effects of Age on Prostatic Responses to Oxytocin and the Effects of Antagonists

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is an age-related enlargement of the prostate with urethral obstruction that predominantly affects the middle-aged and older male population, resulting in disruptive lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), thus creating a profound impact on an individual's quality of life. The development of LUTS may be linked to overexpression of oxytocin receptors (OXTR), resulting in increased baseline myogenic tone within the prostate. Thus, it is hypothesised that targeting OXTR using oxytocin receptor antagonists (atosiban, cligosiban, and β-Mercapto-β,β-cyclopentamethylenepropionyl1, O-Me-Tyr2, Orn8]-Oxytocin (ßMßßC)), may attenuate myogenic tone within the prostate. Organ bath and immunohistochemistry techniques were conducted on prostate tissue from young and older rats. Our contractility studies demonstrated that atosiban significantly decreased the frequency of spontaneous contractions within the prostate of young rats (**** p < 0.0001), and cligosiban (* p < 0.05), and ßMßßC (**** p < 0.0001) in older rats. Additionally, immunohistochemistry findings revealed that nuclear-specific OXTR was predominantly expressed within the epithelium of the prostate of both young (*** p < 0.001) and older rats (**** p < 0.0001). In conclusion, our findings indicate that oxytocin is a key modulator of prostate contractility, and targeting OXTR is a promising avenue in the development of novel BPH drugs.

The Role of Apoptosis in Detrusor Contractility

Apoptosis has been found in bladder affected by various types of voiding dysfunction. In animal studies, higher levels of apoptosis were observed in conditions of both detrusor overactivity and underactivity than in normal bladders. However, it has been difficult to establish the exact underlying mechanism of apoptosis in these conditions and to find new therapeutic targets because the causes of voiding dysfunction are diverse and the coexistence of various types of voiding problems is common. Furthermore, the lack of studies of the human detrusor contributes to our incomplete understanding of these issues. Therefore, this revies discuss the role of apoptosis in detrusor contractility based on previous studies.

The relation between the storage symptoms before and after transurethral resection of the prostate, analysis of the risk factors and the prevention of the symptoms with solifenacin

OBJECTIVE AND HYPOTHESIS

We aimed to investigate the reasons of storage symptoms ( SS) after transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). The hypothesis was that a positive correlation would be identified between preoperative and postoperative SS in patients with undergoing TURP and starting early solifenacin treatment in patients with high preoperative SS would be reasonable. In addition, we aimed to analyze multiple other risk factors for post-TURP SS.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 160 patients undergoing TURP were prospectively evaluated and divided into two groups according to their OABS. Those with a score of ≥10 points were Group 1 (G1), and those with < 10 points Group 2 (G2). In addition, patients in each group were randomly further divided into two subgroups: those who were started on 5 mg solifenacin succinate in the early postoperative period (G1/G2 A) and those who were not (G1/G2 B). In additions to SS Preop, perop and at the 3rd-month of postoperatively 14 variable were evaluated. The effects of these factors, surgery and the efficacy of an early medical treatment on the postoperative SS were investigated. LUTS were assessed by International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and SS were assessed by sum of IPSS 2, 4 and 7 questionnaires (Storage, S- IPSS).

RESULTS

Preoperative IPSS and S-IPSS were significantly higher in G1 (p< 0.001); there was a significant improvement at IPSS, S-IPSS, QoL score, Qmax, and PVR for all groups after surgery. Only preoperative S-IPSS was found to have significant effect on postoperative SS (p< 0.001). There was a significant difference between G1A and G1B but no significant difference between G2A and G2B in terms of SS at postoperatively. In addition to this, prostatic volume was found smaller than non-symptomatic patients in de novo SS patients.

CONCLUSION

TURP provides significant improvement in both storage and voiding symptoms. The predictive value of the preoperative S-IPSS on postop SS is significant. These results suggest that 5 mg solifenacin succinate treatment in the early postoperative period may be beneficial for patients with high preoperative SS and may not be beneficial in others. Small prostatic volume may bode ill for postoperative SS in the patients with de novo SS.

Predictive value of preoperative comprehensive evaluation on the efficacy of HoLEP

Background

With the aging of the population, prostate hyperplasia is more and more perplexing to the old men. This study aimed to evaluate the predictive value of international prostatic symptom score-voiding/storage score ratio (IPSS-V/S), urodynamic examination, intravesical prostatic protrusion (IPP) and residual urine volume (RUV) on the efficacy of holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) before operation.

Methods

Ninety-six patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) were enrolled in this study. Each patient was diagnosed as BPH and completed all the evaluations as described above before the same urologist surgeon performed HoLEP. Three months later, another IPSS questionnaire would be finished by each patient to assess the efficacy of the operation. According to the results of IPSS after operation, the group with significant effect and the group with poor effect were divided. Then compare the difference of preoperative examination results between the two groups.

Results

In single factor analysis, the differences of the age, voiding symptom score, V/S, RUV, Qmax and IPP between the two groups were statistically significant (P<0.05). While there was no significant difference in IPSS score and score of urine storage period. In the logistic regression analysis, the age of patients, V/S, RUV, IPP and Qmax can establish a good prediction model. In this model, the younger the patients are, the less the RUV is, the larger the V/S and IPP are, the more likely they are to achieve good efficacy of HoLEP.

Conclusions

In conclusion, HoLEP was more effective in BPH patients with younger age, more IPP, less RUV, less Qmax and those whose IPSS score was mainly based on voiding symptoms.

Urinary biomarkers of inflammation and tissue remodeling may predict bladder dysfunction in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia

PURPOSE

To evaluate the expression of urinary biomarkers of inflammation and tissue remodeling in patients with BPH undergoing surgery and evaluate the association of biomarkers with postoperative urodynamic outcomes MATERIALS AND METHODS: We analyzed urine samples from 71 patients treated with TURP from 2011 to 2017. Urinary levels of epidermal growth factor (EGF), matrix-metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6), nerve growth factor (NGF) and monocyte-chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) (by commercial ELISA kit) were measured, adjusted by urinary creatinine (Cr) and analyzed according to patients clinical and urodynamic characteristics (baseline and 12-month postoperative urodynamic) RESULTS: MMP-1/Cr levels were significantly higher among subjects with higher detrusor pressure on preoprative urodynamic. MCP-1/Cr levels were significantly higher amongs subjects with preoperative DO. Preoperative levels of NGF/Cr (0.13 vs 0.08, p = 0.005) and MMP-1/Cr (0.11 vs 0.04, p = 0.021) were predictors of persistent DO 12 months after surgery. The following factors were shown to be useful for predicting the persistence of DO in the postoperative period: NGF/Cr, with an AUC of 0.77 (95% CI 0.62-0.92) (p = 0.006), and MMP-1/Cr, with an AUC of 0.72 (95% CI 0.56-0.88) (p = 0.022).

CONCLUSIONS

MMP-1/Cr was associated with higher detrusor pressure and MCP-1/CR with DO. NGF/Cr and MMP-1/Cr were shown to be predictors of persistent postoperative DO.

Are there different patterns of detrusor overactivity which are clinically relevant? ICI-RS 2018

INTRODUCTION

Different patterns of detrusor overactivity (DO) have been described and included in several standardization terminology documents. However, it is unclear if these different patterns have any clinical significance.

METHODS

This is a report of the proceedings of Proposal 3: "Are there different patterns of detrusor overactivity which are clinically relevant?" from the annual International Consultation on Incontinence-Research Society (ICIRS) meeting, which took place from 14 to 16 June 2018, in Bristol, UK.

RESULTS

We have collected and discussed, as a committee, the evidence about different urodynamic (UD) patterns of detrusor overactivity and their potential clinical significance. We reviewed the important previous basic research and clinical studies and compiled summaries. The discussion focused on clinical relevance of different UD patterns of DO and what further research is required.

CONCLUSIONS

There are several UD definitions of patterns of detrusor overactivity, however the clinical relevance of these definitions remains unclear. Future research should concentrate on defining the pattern of DO in relation to clinical diagnosis, gender, age, and treatment outcomes.

Influence of solifenacin on the improvement of storage symptoms in the early period after photoselective vaporization of the prostate

Purpose

We studied the effect of solifenacin on reducing storage symptoms after photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP).

Materials and Methods

This study included patients with persistent storage symptoms of urgency and frequency in a 3-day voiding diary, International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) storage subscore (IPSS-s) ≥5, overactive bladder symptom score (OABSS) ≥5, and OABSS for question 3 ≥4 at 5 days after urethral catheter removal. The patients were randomly assigned to receive once-daily solifenacin 5 mg or placebo for 4 weeks. Evaluation of the 3-day voiding diary, IPSS, and OABSS was performed at 2 and 4 weeks after treatment.

Results

At 2 and 4 weeks after treatment, the urgency and frequency in the 3-day voiding diary, IPSS, IPSS-s, and OABSS were decreased in the solifenacin group. Although the OABSS of the solifenacin group was not significantly different from that of the placebo group, the OABSS of the placebo group increased at 4 weeks compared with that at 2 weeks after treatment. The Benefit, Satisfaction, and Willingness to continue questionnaire showed no significant difference in patient satisfaction between the groups. Although the solifenacin group showed increased post-void residual volume compared with the placebo group, there was no statistically significant difference.

Conclusions

Storage symptoms measured using OABSS tended to decrease after medication with solifenacin in the early period after PVP. Therefore, we suggest that anticholinergics have a potential role in improving storage symptoms after PVP.

Mirabegron as a treatment for overactive bladder symptoms in men (MIRACLE study): Efficacy and safety results from a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel comparison phase IV study

AIMS

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of mirabegron in males with overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms.

METHODS

In total, 464 males with OAB symptoms were enrolled from 14 institutes and were sorted into either the mirabegron 50 mg (n = 310) or placebo (n = 154) groups. The change in (i) the mean number of 24-h micturition episodes; (ii) OAB Symptom Scale (OABSS); and (iii) International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) from baseline to 12 weeks of treatment were compared between the two groups. Safety assessments included treatment-emergent adverse events, blood pressure, pulse rate, postvoid residual volume, and maximum urinary flow rate. After 12 weeks, the study was extended for 14 additional weeks by administering mirabegron 50 mg to both groups.

RESULTS

The reduction in the mean number of 24-h micturition episodes from baseline to 12 weeks of treatment was similar between the two groups. However, significantly greater changes from baseline to 12 weeks were observed in total OABSS, OABSS urgency incontinence score (Q4), IPSS storage subscore (Q2 + Q4 + Q7), and IPSS urgency score (Q4) in the mirabegron group (P = 0.01 for all). According to the extended study, the changes of all efficacy variables from baseline to 26 weeks were similar between both groups. The safety assessment results were also similar between the two groups at 12 and 26 weeks.

CONCLUSION

A daily 50 mg dose of mirabegron for 12 weeks reduced OAB symptoms in men, and no significant adverse events compared to the placebo group were noted.

Effect of urodynamic preoperative detrusor overactivity on the outcomes of transurethral surgery in patients with male bladder outlet obstruction: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of urodynamic detrusor overactivity (DO) on the outcomes of transurethral surgery in patients with male bladder outlet obstruction (BOO).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We systematically searched the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases for articles published between January 1989 and June 2017. All results of eligible studies were synthesized.

RESULTS

Nine articles met the eligibility criteria. These studies included a total of 932 patients with a median number of 92 patients per study (range 40-190). Of the nine studies, the conventional transurethral prostatectomy was adopted in four studies, photoselective vaporization of prostate in three studies, and other surgical modalities in two studies. In patients with DO positive, the pooled mean difference (MD) was not significant for a better or poorer improvement in the International Prostate Symptom Score [pooled MD, - 0.27; 95% confidence interval (CI), - 1.75 to 1.22; studies, 9; participants, 827], quality-of-life score (pooled MD, - 0.14; 95% CI, - 0.46 to 0.18; studies, 7; participants, 734), maximal flow rate (pooled MD, 0.79; 95% CI, - 1.57 to 3.14; studies, 8; participants, 781), and post-void residual volume (pooled MD, 2.81; 95% CI, - 4.70 to 10.32; studies, 6; participants, 509) compared to patients with DO negative. Some comparisons showed between-study heterogeneity despite the strict criteria of the eligible studies. However, there was no clear evidence of publication bias in the funnel plots.

CONCLUSIONS

Our meta-analysis results demonstrated that preoperative urodynamic DO has no diagnostic role in the prediction of surgical outcomes in patients with male BOO.

Combination treatment for male lower urinary tract symptoms with anticholinergic and alpha-blockers

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Although alpha-adrenergic antagonists (α-blockers) are effective for relieving voiding lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in men, storage symptoms often persist. The aim of this manuscript is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of combination therapy with α-blockers and muscarinic receptor antagonists (anticholinergics).

RECENT FINDINGS

High-quality evidence confirms that the addition of an anticholinergic improves micturition diary parameters, such as daytime and nocturnal frequency and urgency incontinence episodes, as well as total and storage subset scores on the International Prostate Symptom Score. Most studies demonstrate a statistically significant improvement over α-blocker monotherapy. Both, incidence of urinary retention and study withdrawal because of treatment-related adverse events with combination therapy, are low. Urodynamic indices, such as maximum flow rate and postvoid residual volume, are also minimally impacted by combination therapy. Outcomes on validated questionnaires and quality-of-life (QoL) indices also indicate a significant improvement.

SUMMARY

The addition of an anticholinergic to an α-blocker in men with storage and voiding LUTS is an effective practice in reducing both categories of symptoms. The addition of anticholinergic is associated with a low rate of urinary retention and the impact on efficient bladder emptying is minimal. Not unexpectedly, QoL is improved.

Patient-perceived effectiveness and impact on quality of life of solifenacin in combination with an α-blocker in men with overactive bladder in Sweden: a non-interventional study

Treating male lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) by targeting the prostate would have limited effect on overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms. This study assessed perceived symptoms and quality of life (QoL) of male patients with OAB treated with an α-blocker plus solifenacin in daily clinical practice. Male patients aged ≥40 years were included after the decision was made to initiate treatment with an α-blocker for LUTS plus solifenacin for OAB symptoms. The primary endpoint was change in patient perception of bladder condition (PPBC) questionnaire score over 6 months. Other assessments included the OAB-questionnaire short form (OAB-q SF) and International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS). Interpretation of the study data was hindered by not meeting the enrollment target and a high dropout rate. In 36 evaluable patients, mean (SD) PPBC score improved from 4.3 (0.93) at baseline ("moderate" to "severe" problems) to 3.5 (1.06) at month 6 ("minor" to "moderate" problems). OAB-q SF scores and total IPSS also improved. In this patient population, treatment with solifenacin and an α-blocker resulted in improvements in male patient perception of their LUTS and QoL, although the results should be interpreted with caution due to the low number of patients with complete data.

Treatment of Concomitant OAB and BPH

The etiology of men's lower urinary tract storage and voiding symptoms involves a contribution from both detrusor and outlet. As such, treatment of benign prostatic enlargement (BPE) ± benign prostatic obstruction (BPO) with standard alpha-adrenergic blockade and 5-alpha reductase inhibitor therapy may leave a population of men with persistent and bothersome urinary storage symptoms. An abundance of adequately powered, randomized, placebo-controlled trials indicate that the use of antimuscarinics and beta-3 adrenergic agonists, either alone or in combination with standard BPE/BPO therapy, leads to improvement in storage symptoms. At the same time, metrics associated with urinary emptying, such as maximum flow rate, post-void residual urinary volume, and incidence of treatment-associated urinary retention, appear to be stable and not significantly impacted by the addition of antimuscarinics.

Current consensus and controversy on the diagnosis of male lower urinary tract symptoms/benign prostatic hyperplasia

Traditionally, male lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) have been considered a synonym for benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) because most male LUTS develops in aging men. Medical treatment should be the first-line treatment for BPH and surgical intervention should be performed when there are complications or LUTS refractory to medical treatment. Recent investigations have revealed that bladder dysfunction and bladder outlet dysfunction contribute equally to male LUTS. In the diagnosis of LUTS suggestive of BPH (LUTS/BPH), the following questions should be considered: Is there an obstruction? Are the LUTS caused by an enlarged prostate? What are the appropriate tools to diagnose an obstructive BPH? Should patients with LUTS be treated before bladder outlet obstruction is confirmed? This article discusses the current consensus and controversies in the diagnosis of LUTS/BPH.

Current consensus and controversy on the treatment of male lower urinary tract symptoms/benign prostatic hyperplasia

Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are highly prevalent in men and increase with age. Because LUTS are common among elderly men, they are usually considered synonymous with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Drugs should be the first-line treatment for BPH and surgical intervention should be performed only when there are complications or LUTS refractory to medical treatment. In addition to medical treatment, several minimally invasive therapies, such as thermal therapy, prostatic lift, laser evaporation, or laser enucleation techniques have been developed. Recent investigations have also revealed that bladder dysfunction such as detrusor overactivity and detrusor underactivity may also contribute to male LUTS. In the treatment of LUTS suggestive of BPH (LUTS/BPH), the following questions should be considered: Is there an obstruction? Are we treating BPH or LUTS? Can management targeting BPH reduce LUTS? Should patients with LUTS be treated before bladder outlet obstruction is confirmed? What is the role of transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) nowadays? Will new techniques provide better outcomes than TURP? This article discusses the current consensus and controversies in the treatment of LUTS/BPH.

Potential Biomarkers Utilized to Define and Manage Overactive Bladder Syndrome

Clinical diagnosis of overactive bladder (OAB) syndrome has great variation and usually can only be based on subjective symptoms. Measurement of urgency severity score in adjunct with voiding diary may reflect the occurrence of OAB and incontinence severity in daily life. Urodynamic study can detect detrusor overactivity (DO), but not in all OAB patients. A more objective way and less invasive tool to diagnose and assess therapeutic outcome in OAB patients is needed. Recent investigations of the potential biomarkers for OAB include urinary and serum biomarkers and bladder wall thickness. Evidence has also shown that urinary proteins, such as nerve growth factor (NGF) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2 ) levels increase in patients with OAB, bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) and DO. Patients with OAB have significantly higher urinary NGFlevels and urinary NGF levels decrease after antimuscarinic therapy and further decrease after detrusor botulinum toxin injections. However, the sensitivity of single urinary protein in the diagnosis of OAB is not high and several lower urinary tract diseases may also have elevated urinary NGF levels. Searching for a group of inflammatory biomarkers by microsphere-based array in urine might be a better method in differential diagnosis of OAB from interstitial cystitis, urinary tract infection (UTI) or urolithiasis. Bladder wall thickness has been widely investigated in the diagnosis of BOO and pediatric voiding dysfunction.The role of bladder wall thickness in the diagnosis of OAB, however, has not reach a consistent conclusion. We hereby review the latest medical advances in this field.

Effect of preoperative urodynamic detrusor overactivity on post-prostatectomy incontinence: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

To investigate whether preoperative urodynamic detrusor overactivity (DO) contributes to post-prostatectomy incontinence (PPI).

METHODS

We systematically searched the online PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases spanning the period of January 1989 to December 2014.

RESULTS

A total of nine articles met the eligibility criteria for this systematic review. The eligible studies included a total of 457 patients with a median number of 58 patients per study (range 17-92). Of the nine studies, five conducted open retropubic radical prostatectomy (RRP), two performed robot-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP), and two others utilized multiple modalities. PPI was more likely to occur in patients with preoperative DO [pooled odds ratio (OR) 2.30; 95 % confidence interval (CI) 1.39-3.82; studies 9; participants 419], as compared to patients who were DO negative. Sensitivity analysis using the subgroups of RRP (OR 2.32; 95 % CI 1.11-4.85), RALP (OR 3.41; 95 % CI 1.55-7.47), DO defined as any amplitude of involuntary contraction (OR 2.32; 95 % CI 1.11-4.85), no postoperative intervention (OR 2.32; 95 % CI 1.11-4.85), and outcome evaluation after 6 months (OR 2.32; 95 % CI 1.11-4.85) demonstrated consistent results. Although some comparisons showed inter-study heterogeneity, there was no clear evidence of publication bias in this meta-analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Our meta-analysis results suggest that preoperative DO is another possible underlying mechanism for PPI.

How much improvement is needed for a real difference of lower urinary tract symptoms after long-term combination therapy for benign prostatic hyperplasia

AIMS

Medical treatment is the first choice in the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) suggestive of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). This retrospective study investigated the changes of measured parameters after 4-year medical therapy based on the reported quality of life index (QoL-I) in the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) questionnaire.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients with symptomatic BPH received 4-year treatment with doxazosin 4 mg and dutasteride 0.5 mg daily. All patients had a total prostate volume (TPV) of ≥ 30 ml and IPSS ≥ 8 at baseline. The measured parameters included IPSS, maximum flow rate (Qmax), postvoid residual volume (PVR), TPV and prostate specific antigen (PSA). The changes of parameters from baseline to 4th year were compared between patients with different QoL-I.

RESULTS

Among 243 enrolled patients, 161(66.3%) completed the treatment, 82(33.7%) did not complete the 4-year treatment because of unsatisfactory results (51, 21%) or converted to surgery (31, 12.8%). At the 4th year, 147/161 (91.3%) patients reported a QoL-I of 0-2. All measured parameters show significant improvement. Among the patients with satisfactory QoL (QoL-I 0-2), IPSS ≤ 7 was noted in 113 (76.9%), Qmax ≥ 15 ml/s in 54 (36.79%), PVR < 50 ml in 83 (56.5%), TPV ≤ 39 ml in 63 (42.9%), and PSA ≤ 1.5 ng/ml in 66 (44.9%). Except for the IPSS, a significant change in each parameter from baseline to the 4th year was noted in less than 50% of the patients with satisfactory QoL.

CONCLUSION

Based on the patients' reported QoL-I, a successful therapeutic result does not need the improvement of all measured parameters.

Twelve-week, prospective, open-label, randomized trial on the effects of an anticholinergic agent or antidiuretic agent as add-on therapy to an alpha-blocker for lower urinary tract symptoms

Purpose

The effects of an anticholinergic or antidiuretic agent as add-on therapy to an alpha-blocker for lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) according to a voiding diary in 3 days are unknown. We prospectively investigated the efficacy of an anticholinergic or antidiuretic agent as add-on therapy for nocturia in men previously treated with an alpha-blocker for LUTS.

Subjects and methods

Patients were randomly subdivided into two groups. All patients had a 4-week washout. Group A had alpha-blocker for 4 weeks, then an alpha-blocker plus an anticholinergic agent for 4 weeks, and, finally, 4 weeks of an alpha-blocker plus an antidiuretic agent. Group B had an alpha-blocker for 4 weeks, then an alpha-blocker plus an antidiuretic agent for 4 weeks, and, finally, 4 weeks of an alpha-blocker plus an anticholinergic agent. In both groups, patients were subdivided into nocturnal polyuria, decreased nocturnal bladder capacity (NBC), or nocturia by both causes subgroups. A 3-day voiding diary, total International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), IPSS sub-scores, Overactive Bladder Symptom Score, uroflowmetry, and post-void residual urine volume, were assessed at baseline, and at 4, 8, and 12 weeks.

Results

A total of 405 patients completed the study. During treatment, the changes from baseline in total IPSS and IPSS sub-scores were significantly decreased at 4 weeks and were maintained for 12 weeks. In the nocturnal polyuria subgroup of Groups A and B, the number of episodes of nocturia in 3 days, nocturnal urine volume, and nocturnal index were significantly decreased using an alpha-blocker plus an antidiuretic agent. In the decreased NBC subgroup of Groups A and B, IPSS storage sub-score, Overactive Bladder Symptom Score, number of episodes of nocturia in 3 days, number of episodes of urgency in 3 days, and NBC index were all significantly decreased using an alpha-blocker plus an anticholinergic agent.

Conclusion

An anticholinergic agent or antidiuretic agent as an add-on therapy in men previously treated with an alpha-blocker improves nocturia including LUTS.

Severity of lower urinary tract symptoms reflects different composition of bladder storage dysfunction and bladder outlet obstruction in men with symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia

AIMS

Differentiation of different lower urinary tract dysfunctions (LUTD) is essential for selecting the optimal first-line medical treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). This study analysed the association of the severity of LUTS with LUTD and therapeutic results based on the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) voiding to storage (V/S) ratio.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Lower urinary tract symptoms were evaluated in 849 men using the IPSS questionnaire and the IPSS-V/S ratio. The prostate measures, urinary flow measures, and C-reactive protein (CRP) were investigated at baseline and 1 month after treatment. Therapeutic results were assessed by changes in the quality of life index (QoL-I). The associations of the severity of LUTS with LUTD and therapeutic results were analysed.

RESULTS

Mild (IPSS ≤ 7), moderate (8 ≤ IPSS ≤ 19) and severe LUTS (IPSS ≥ 20) were noted in 215, 461 and 173 men. IPSS-V/S ≤ 1 was noted in 81.4% of patients with mild LUTS, while IPSS-V/S > 1 was noted in 71.1% of patients with severe LUTS. After treatment with alpha-blockers in patients with IPSS-V/S > 1 and antimuscarinic agents in patients with IPSS-V/S ≤ 1 for 1 month, 84.0% and 88.8% of patients with mild LUTS had effective therapeutic results, respectively. In contrast, the therapeutic results were less effective in patients with moderate (64.9% and 63.8%, respectively) or severe LUTS (50% and 33.3%, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and mild LUTS have more bladder storage dysfunction, whereas patients with BPH and severe LUTS had higher grade of bladder outlet disorders in associated with storage symptoms. Treatment based on the IPSS-V/S ratio results in good therapeutic results in men with mild and moderate LUTS, but not in men with severe LUTS.

Comparison of alfuzosin 10 mg with or without propiverine 10 mg, 20 mg in men with lower urinary tract symptom and an overactive bladder: randomised, single-blind, prospective study

PURPOSE

The efficacy and safety of treatment with alfuzosin 10 mg plus propiverine 10 or 20 mg in men with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and an overactive bladder were investigated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this parallel-arm, prospective, multicentre, single-blind study, men who were ≥ 40 years old, had an International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) of ≥ 8, an Overactive Bladder Symptom Score (OABSS) of ≥ 3 and an OABSS urgency item score of ≥ 2 were randomised in a 1 : 1 :1 ratio to receive alfuzosin 10 mg alone (Group A) or with propiverine 10 mg (Group B) or 20 mg (Group C) for 8 weeks. Four and 8 weeks after commencing treatment, OABSS was measured along with IPSS, maximal urinary flow rate (Qmax ) and postvoid residual volume (PVR). Adverse events were recorded.

RESULTS

A total of 135 men, including 43 in Group A, 48 in Group B and 44 in Group C, completed the study. Relative to baseline, all groups demonstrated significant reductions in OABSS and the IPSS after eight treatment weeks (p < 0.005). The improvement of OABSS in Group C was significantly greater than Group A and B (Group A: 0.70 ± 1.94; Group B: 2.50 ± 2.98; Group C: 4.30 ± 3.40; p < 0.005). An observed improvement of Qmax and PVR in the three groups did not achieve statistical significance. Overall adverse event rates were higher in Group C but not significant compared with others.

CONCLUSION

In patients with LUTS and overactive bladder, combined therapy with alfuzosin 10 mg plus propiverine 20 mg was significantly more effective than alfuzosin monotherapy and propiverine 10 mg combined therapy in terms of improving OABSS while not significantly affecting Qmax or PVR.

Efficacy and safety of propiverine and terazosine combination for one year in male patients with luts and detrusor overactivity

PURPOSE

To evaluate the long term efficacy and safety of the use of propiverine and terazosine combination in patients with LUTS and DO by a placebo controlled study.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred patients were enrolled in the study. They were randomized into two groups (each group consisted of 50 patients). Terazosine and placebo were administered to the patients in Group 1 and terazosine plus propiverine HCL was administered to Group 2. The patients were evaluated by international prostate symptom score (IPSS), the first four questions of IPSS (IPSS4), the 8th question of IPSS (quality of life-QoL), overactive bladder symptom score questionnaire (OAB-q V8), PSA test, urodynamic studies, post voiding residue (PVR). All patients were followed for one year and were reassessed for comparison.

RESULTS

IPSS, IPSS4, OAB symptoms, QoL score, PVR, and Qmax scores of the groups did not differ. After one year treatment, there was significant improvement in IPSS, IPSS4, OAB symptoms, QoL and Qmax values in Group 2. No significant improvement was noted for the same parameters in Group 1.

CONCLUSION

This is the first study to show long term safety and efficacy of anticholinergic therapy for patients with LUTS. In patients with OAB or DO, long term anticholinergic treatment may be regarded as a treatment option.

Is There a Relation between Reticular Formation and Storage Symptoms in Men

OBJECTIVE

To reveal brainstem originated pathology in men with different types of lower urinary tract symptoms blink reflex latency times were assessed.

METHODS

A total of 32 men, 16 with storage and 16 with voiding symptoms, were enrolled in the study. Blink reflex latency times were analyzed through electrical stimulation of the supraorbital nerve. Two responses in the orbicularis oculi muscle were recorded: the latency times for the early ipsilateral response, R1, and the late bilateral responses, R2.

RESULTS

The mean ages of the patients with storage and voiding symptoms were 57.31 ± 6.87 and 58.06 ± 6.29 years, respectively. The R2 latency times were significantly longer in men with storage symptoms. However, the R1 latency times were similar for the two groups.

CONCLUSION

Late blink latency times were long only in patients who had storage symptoms. An oligosynaptic path through the trigeminal nuclei, which includes one or two interneurons, is responsible for early response; however, late response is relayed through a polysynaptic path, including neurons in the reticular formation. It has also been shown that stimulation of the pontine reticular formation inhibits the micturition contraction. In some patients, storage symptoms may result from pathology that originates with the reticular formation and this pathology may lead to increases in late blink latency times. Additional studies are needed on other reflexes that are mediated through reticular formation, in order to show the possible dysfunction of the reticular formation in men with storage symptoms.

Functional consequences of chronic bladder ischemia

The pathophysiology of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), particularly in the elderly, seems to be multifactorial. One of the factors involved may be chronic ischemia of the bladder caused by bladder outflow obstruction (male) or atherosclerosis (male/female). The mechanisms by which chronic ischemia initiates and causes LUTS and progressive bladder dysfunction, and the time course of the effects, are incompletely known. Bladder ischemia and repeated ischemia/reperfusion during a micturition cycle may produce oxidative stress, leading to denervation of the bladder and the expression of tissue damaging molecules in the bladder wall. This may be responsible for the development of detrusor overactivity progressing to detrusor underactivity and inability to empty the bladder. The extent of bladder dysfunction in chronic bladder ischemia may depend on the degree and duration of ischemia. To prevent chronic bladder ischemia caused by atherosclerosis and to treat its consequences, more pathophysiological knowledge is needed. Several animal models of atherosclerosis-induced chronic bladder ischemia are available and should be useful tools for further research.

Profile of lower urinary tract symptoms in the male and their impact on quality of life

OBJECTIVES

Following current European Guidelines, Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS) are produced by several causes and, thus, thorough clinical assessment should be undertaken for a correct therapeutic management. This study was conducted in order to assess the symptoms profile and their impact on Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQL) of male patients attending urology outpatient clinics.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Epidemiological, cross-sectional study including adult male patients (n=826) presenting with at least one de novo previously untreated LUTS. Socio-demographic and clinical variables were collected. Patients completed IPSS, Bladder Control Self-Assessment Questionnaire (B-SAQ) and SF-12 questionnaires.

RESULTS

Mean age (SD) was 65 (10) years. A combination of storage, voiding and post-micturition symptoms were present in 69% of subjects and 30% showed >2 urgency episodes and >6 micturitions daily (storage symptoms -SS- sub-population). Storage symptoms were the reason for consultation in 86%. Mean peak urinary flow (Q(max)) was 11.4 mL/s, in 44% of patients,prostate volume was 20-40 mL and 91% showed moderate or severe symptoms on IPSS with an overall mean (SD) score of 17 (7). SS sub-population had higher B-SAQ scores (6,9 vs 4,8 for symptoms; 7,8 vs 5,1 for bother), and worse HRQL (IPSS item 8).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings support the importance of addressing treatment adequately according to patient profile, bothersomeness and impact on HRQL.

[New treatment strategies for male lower urinary tract symptoms]

For patients with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), α1-adrenoreceptor inhibitors and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors as well as their combination are considered the gold standard. In addition, anticholinergic agents are being introduced as monotherapy or in combination with α1-adrenocepetor inhibitors for patients with predominant storage disorders. Phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitors are often the best option for patients with LUTS who also suffer from erectile dysfunction. Recently, novel treatment options have been presented and intraprostatic injection of various agents, such as botulinum toxin A, NX-1207 and PRX302 has shown promising initial results. In addition, innovative minimally invasive treatment options, such as UroLift® appear to be efficacious and safe in this patient cohort. Particular emphasis should be laid on patients with LUTS and concomitant sexual disorders.

Bladder health across the life course

Influences on bladder health begin during infancy and continue throughout the lifespan. Bladder anatomy and physiology change as individuals age, and the risk and propensity for bladder conditions, including lower urinary tract symptoms, throughout life are related to factors specific to age, sex, and life events. Bladder habits and dysfunctions at one stage of life may affect bladder health in subsequent stages. However, bladder problems are neither a normal part of aging nor inevitable at any stage of life. Many of the factors that negatively impact bladder health at all ages may be modifiable, and healthy bladder habits may prevent or reverse bladder dysfunctions that can occur naturally or in response to life events. There are opportunities to further define and promote healthy bladder habits through focused research and heightened public awareness of the importance of bladder health, which may lead to improvements in overall health and quality of life. It is our hope that this paper will inform and encourage public health initiatives and research programs aimed at this goal.

Objective Evaluation of Overactive Bladder: Which Surveys Should I Use?

Overactive bladder (OAB) is a common condition that affects many adults, and prevalence increases with age in both men and women. It is characterized by symptoms of urinary frequency and urgency with or without urge incontinence in the absence of another proven etiology. As a diagnosis based solely on urinary symptoms, proper evaluation of OAB often depends on the use of psychometrically validated questionnaires to assess symptom severity and degree of bother. General urinary assessment forms can evaluate many urinary symptoms while modular questionnaires can focus on the most bothersome complaints. Many questionnaires have been formulated and validated to achieve these goals. Currently, the ideal questionnaire does not exist. This review attempts to outline the range of questionnaires available to the clinician to assist in evaluating symptoms as well as degree of impact on quality of life.

Lower urinary tract symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia: combined treatment with fesoterodine fumarate extended-release and tamsulosin--a prospective study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of fesoterodine extended-release (ER) plus tamsulosin in men with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Men aged ≥50 years, with LUTS, prostate volume ≤60 ml and International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) ≥13 were enrolled in this study. 173 consecutive patients were treated initially with tamsulosin (0.4 mg) for 1 week. At the second visit, 47 patients out of the sample of 173 who were still experiencing inconvenient LUTS were randomized into two groups. The first group received a therapy with tamsulosin and fesoterodine combination (group 1, n = 24) while the second continued the therapy with the single administration of tamsulosin (group 2, n = 23) for an additional 4-week period.

RESULTS

There was no statistically significant difference in age, prostate volume, Q, and postvoid residual urine between the two groups. A statistical significance appeared in the combination group regarding the storage and the total IPSS values among the second and third visits (10.5 ± 1.4 to 8.5 ± 1.3 and 16.1 ± 1.8 to 13.7 ± 1.5 respectively).

CONCLUSION

Regarding bothersome LUTS and storage symptoms, fesoterodine ER and tamsulosin combination was significantly more effective than the single administration of tamsulosin.

Management of lower urinary tract dysfunction in patients with neurological disorders

The proper performance of the lower urinary tract is dependent on an intact neural innervation of the individual structures involved. Therefore, any congenital neurological anomalies, diseases, or lesions of the central, peripheral, or autonomic nervous systems can result in lower urinary tract symptoms. Lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) secondary to neurological disorders can significantly reduce quality of life (QoL) and may also give rise to serious complications and psychological and social sequelae. The goals of management of LUTD in patients with neurological disorders are to prevent serious complications and to improve the patient's QoL. Understanding the physiology and pathophysiology of micturition is critical to selecting appropriate treatment options. This article provides an overview of the clinical characteristics, diagnosis, and management of LUTD in patients with certain central and peripheral neuropathies and common lesions.

Optimizing the management of benign prostatic hyperplasia

One of the challenges facing primary care physicians and specialists as the population ages is the management of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). While as many as 18% of men in their 40s report bother from an enlarged prostate, that figure rises dramatically, whereby 50% of men in their 50s and 90% of men in their 90s will complain of bothersome symptoms related to an enlarged prostate. Studies have shown that BPH is a progressive disease, which if left untreated can result in worsening of symptoms, acute urinary retention and renal failure. Until about 20 years ago the only management option available to urologists was surgery. In the early 1990s medical therapy emerged as the predominant treatment for BPH. Therapy may be tailored to target symptoms and progression of disease.

Serum C-reactive protein levels are associated with residual urgency symptoms in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia after medical treatment

OBJECTIVE

Urinary urgency is a common and bothersome symptom in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH); this symptom may persist even after medical treatment. Chronic inflammation has been reported to be associated with the pathogenesis of BPH and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). We investigate the association between serum C-reactive protein (CRP) level and residual urgency symptoms in BPH patients after medical treatment.

METHODS

Two-hundred-five men undergoing stable medical treatment for BPH, defined as a total prostate volume ≥40 mL, were enrolled. Patients with acute infection or those taking nonsteroid antiinflammatory drugs or aspirin were excluded. Uroflowmetry, postvoid residual volume, transrectal ultrasound parameters, serum prostate specific antigen (PSA), and CRP level were measured. A three-day void diary was recorded to identify the presence of urinary urgency.

RESULTS

The mean serum CRP level was 0.24 mg/dL (range 0.01-2.84), and residual urgency was identified in 90 patients (43.9%). Patients with residual urgency were older and had significantly higher serum CRP levels (0.39 ± 0.54 mg/dL) than those without urgency (0.13 ± 0.20, P <.001). On multivariable logistic regression analysis, men with CRP levels ≥0.3 mg/dL were more likely to have urgency (odds ratio 8.08, 95% confidence interval 3.26-20.0) after adjusting for age, serum PSA level, total prostate volume, and antimuscarinic use. Patients with serum CRP levels ≥0.30 mg/dL had more urgency (82.1%) than those with serum CRP levels <0.30 mg/dL (34.9%).

CONCLUSION

Serum CRP level is significantly associated with residual urgency in BPH patients after medical treatment. Chronic inflammation may play a role in the occurrence of residual urgency in BPH patients.

A practical approach to the management of lower urinary tract symptoms among men

Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are common among Australian men over the age of 45 years; most men with LUTS will have benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), overactive bladder (OAB), or both. The cause of LUTS should be diagnosed by assessing symptom severity and excluding of medical or pharmaceutical causes. All men with LUTS should undergo digital rectal examination; other diagnostic tools include urine and blood testing, voiding charts and imaging. Depending on disease severity, impact on quality of life, patient preference, presence of complications and fitness for surgery, BPH is managed with watchful waiting, pharmacotherapy (α-blockers or 5-α-reductase inhibitors), minimally invasive surgical therapies or surgery. OAB is initially treated with behavioural therapy; if this is ineffective, pharmacotherapy (usually antimuscarinics) can be used. Patients with LUTS with a provisional diagnosis other than BPH or OAB, or with complications or poor response to pharmacotherapy, should be referred to a urologist.