The neurogenic bladder in multiple sclerosis: review of the literature and proposal of management guidelines

Summary of the 2024 Update of the European Association of Urology Guidelines on Neurourology

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Most patients with neurourological disorders require lifelong medical care. The European Association of Urology (EAU) regularly updates guidelines for diagnosis and treatment of these patients. The objective of this review is to provide a summary of the 2024 updated EAU guidelines on neurourology.

METHODS

A structured literature review covering the timeframe 2021-2023 was conducted for the guideline update. A level of evidence and a strength rating were assigned for each recommendation on the basis of the literature data.

KEY FINDINGS AND LIMITATIONS

Neurological conditions significantly affect urinary, sexual, and bowel function, and lifelong management is required for neurourological patients to maintain their quality of life and prevent urinary tract deterioration. Early diagnosis and effective treatment are key, and comprehensive clinical assessments, including urodynamics, are crucial. Management should be customised to individual needs and should involve a multidisciplinary approach and address sexuality and fertility. Lifelong monitoring and follow-up highlight the importance of continuous care for neurourological patients.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

The 2024 EAU guidelines on neurourology provide an up-to-date overview of available evidence on diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up for neurourological patients.

PATIENT SUMMARY

Neurological disorders very frequently affect the lower urinary tract and sexual and bowel function and patients need lifelong management. We summarise the updated European Association of Urology guidelines on neurourology to provide patients and caregivers with the latest insights for optimal health care support.

Urinary Tract Infection Diagnostic and Management Considerations in People with Spinal Cord Injury and Neurogenic Bladder

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common complications in people with neurogenic bladder. Prevention, diagnosis, and treatment are challenging for several reasons, including a high prevalence of asymptomatic bacteriuria and catheter use, frequent ambiguous nonlocalizing signs and symptoms, increased risk for complications and difficult-to-treat pathogens, and a lack of effective preventative methods. Current research aims to improve elicitation and evaluation of signs and symptoms, implement algorithms to avoid urine cultures in asymptomatic patients and use appropriate antibiotics for UTI, and identify novel effective prevention methods.

Exploring Factors Associated with Falls in Multiple Sclerosis: Insights from a Scoping Review

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory condition that causes demyelination of the central nervous system accompanied by a wide range of symptoms. The high prevalence of falls among patients diagnosed with MS within the initial six months highlights the importance of this issue. The objective of this study is to identify factors associated with falls in MS patients in order to increase awareness and reduce the risk of falls. This scoping review used specific Mesh terms to formulate the literature search around falls and MS using Medline, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Embase search engines. English papers published between 2012 and 2022, studies with a clear definition of falls, McDonald's diagnostic criteria for MS, and those with Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) or Patient Determined Disease Steps (PDDS) scores were included. Critical data from the selected articles were extracted and classified according to the different factors associated with falls in MS patients. Eighteen articles were included in this review. The most important factors associated with falls in MS patients identified were the severity and progression of the disease, mobility and balance problems, bladder dysfunction, fear of falling, fatigue, and cognitive dysfunction. In conclusion, this scoping review yielded the most common factors associated with falls in patients with MS. Study findings can be used to develop future interventions focusing on improving mobility, proprioception, and balance to decrease fall risk and injury amongst MS patients.

Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction in Pediatric Patients with Multiple Sclerosis: Diagnostic and Management Concerns

BACKGROUND

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is increasing in the pediatric population and, as in adults, symptoms vary among patients. In children the first manifestations can sometimes overlap with acute neurological symptoms. Urological symptoms have not been much studied in childhood. We shared our experience with MS urological manifestation in children.

METHODS

This article is a retrospective evaluation of all children with MS, according to the Krupp criteria, who also present with urological symptoms. We collected demographic and clinical history, the MR localization of demyelinating lesions, urological symptoms, and exams.

RESULTS

We report on six MS pediatric cases with urological manifestation. Urinary symptoms, characterized by urinary incontinence in five patients and urinary retention in one patient, appeared in a different time frame from MS diagnosis. Urodynamic exams showed both overactive and underactive bladder patterns. Treatment was defined according to lower urinary tract dysfunction, using clean intermittent catheterization, oxybutynin, and intradetrusor Onabotulinum Toxin-A injection. A low acceptance rate of invasive evaluation and urological management was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

The MS diagnosis was traumatic for all our patients. We believe it is important to address urological care in young people from the time of diagnosis for prompt management; it could be useful to include a pediatric urologist in multidisciplinary teams.

Efficacy and Safety of Mirabegron Add-on Therapy After Failure With Solifenacin in Multiple Sclerosis Patients With Overactive Bladder: A Pilot Study

OBJECTIVES

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative progressive disease of central nervous system that mostly affects young adults. (1) Because of involvement of spinal cord and brain, lower urinary dysfunction symptoms are commonly encountered. MS patients mostly show overactive bladder symptoms like urgency, frequent daytime urination, and urgency incontinence. Among MS patients, antimuscarinic therapy is the first-line treatment with overactive bladder symptoms as well as in general population yet 30% of the patients show insufficient improvement or intolerance to the treatment (2). In our study, our aim is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of mirabegron add-on treatment in MS patients after inadequate response to antimuscarinic monotherapy.

METHODS

University of Kyrenia and Dr Burhan Nalbantoglu State hospital's databases were screened for the study. Seventy patients who were residents diagnosed with MS according to McDonald criteria were questioned. Among these patients, a total of 22 of them were included in the study. Inclusion criteria was at least 3 years of MS diagnosis, score of <6 at Expanded Disability Status Scale, and a score of ≥3 at Overactive Bladder Symptom Score Scale.

RESULTS

Among selected patients, 10 mg solifenacin treatment was daily started and followed for 4 weeks. Mirabegron add-on treatment was initiated to the 11 patient who had inadequate improvement in overactive bladder symptom score. After mirabegron add-on treatment among 11 patient, there was a sufficient improvement in overactive bladder symptom score (P < 0.008).

CONCLUSIONS

In our study, we have found that antimuscarinic and mirabegron combination causes improved efficacy for overactive bladder in MS population.

Etiology, presentation and management of urinary tract infections in multiple sclerosis patients: A review of the current literature

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) present a formidable challenge in the care of individuals affected by multiple sclerosis (MS). Lower urinary tract dysfunction is a prevalent issue among MS patients, predisposing them to an elevated risk of UTIs. When left untreated, UTIs can further exacerbate the already compromised quality of life in individuals with MS. The diagnosis and management of UTIs in MS patients necessitate a careful clinical evaluation. The objective of this review is to delineate preventive strategies and current and developing therapeutic approaches for preventing and treating UTIs associated with urinary dysfunction, catheterization, and upper urinary tract infections in patients with MS. Effectively addressing UTIs and urinary tract dysfunction in individuals with multiple sclerosis calls for a comprehensive, interdisciplinary approach.

Detrusor Sphincter Dyssynergia

Detrusor sphincter dyssynergia (DSD) is defined as a detrusor contraction concurrent with an involuntary contraction of the urethral and/or periurethral striated muscles typically occurring in a patient with a spinal cord lesion above the sacral cord. Consequently, high urethral closure pressures during the detrusor contraction leads to high intravesical voiding pressure and large postvoid residuals, which can lead to significant complications in up to 50% of patients if DSD is not treated and followed-up regularly. DSD treatment options are centered around symptomatic management rather that addressing the underlying causative mechanisms.

Voiding Phase Dysfunction in Multiple Sclerosis: Contemporary Review of Terminology, Diagnosis, Management, and Future Directions

Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are highly prevalent in individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). However, assessment of these symptoms is often hindered by vague definitions or absence of screening in asymptomatic patients. It is crucial to exercise caution when applying the non-neurogenic definition of urinary retention in this population. For men with MS experiencing persistent and treatment-resistant LUTS, urodynamic studies should be used to identify the underlying causes of symptoms. Although numerous therapies are presently accessible for managing LUTS in MS, there is a need for further investigation into emerging treatments such as percutaneous tibial nerve, and noninvasive brain stimulation.

[Neuro-urological diagnostics and treatment of non-traumatic/degenerative neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction exemplified by multiple sclerosis]

Neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction in multiple sclerosis is often underestimated, underdiagnosed, and inadequately treated. Depending on the course of the disease and the location of neural damage, it occurs with varying frequency and types of impairment of urine storage and voiding function. Symptoms such as urinary incontinence, recurrent urinary tract infections, urgency, pollakiuria, reduced urinary flow, hesitancy as well as postvoid residual urine may occur. However, the symptoms do not allow any conclusions to be drawn about the underlying type of neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction. Although numerous data, publications, and guidelines are available on this topic today, there continues to be a lack of standardized screening parameters and algorithms that have been tested in prospective studies for multiple sclerosis. This article presents the current diagnostic and therapeutic options of neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction in multiple sclerosis. A crucial issue is the initial delay in diagnosis, not least due to a lack of communication between neurologists and urologists. Initial indicators of the presence of neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction can be obtained by actively asking about the subjective presence of symptoms such as urinary incontinence or the occurrence of urinary tract infections. However, a subjective lack of symptoms does not rule out a neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction. Regardless of the stage of the disease, an early and individualized neuro-urological diagnosis and treatment should be implemented. All aspects of the damage and the extent of functional deficits in other organ systems caused by multiple sclerosis must be included in this neuro-urological treatment decision, which requires a consistent interdisciplinary exchange between neurologists, general practitioners, and urologists. This interdisciplinary and interprofessional way of thinking and acting is key for an optimal treatment using the numerous therapeutic procedures. Lifelong, individual, risk-adapted urological care for the early detection and prevention of neuro-urological complications should be offered to persons with multiple sclerosis.

The impact of anticholinergics on cognitive function in patients with neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction: A narrative review

This narrative review discusses the relationship between anticholinergic medications and cognitive change specifically in patients with neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD). NLUTD is prevalent in various conditions, including spinal cord injury (SCI), spina bifida (SB), multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson's, stroke, and dementia and often requires anticholinergic overactive bladder (OAB) medications. In the general population, and among those with OAB, several studies have found a significant association between this class of medications and cognitive side effects, mostly when used for > 90 days. These cognitive side effects may be particularly relevant to people with NLUTD due to their higher baseline risk of cognitive impairment. Two studies (one in people with SCI and another in MS) found evidence of cognitive impairment with the use of OAB anticholinergics (specifically oxybutynin and tolterodine). People with dementia commonly use OAB anticholinergics, and there is evidence that oxybutynin and tolterodine may impair cognition in this population. Two recent studies in children with SB studied 12 months of solifenacin and 6 months of fesoterodine/oxybutynin and found there was no significant change in neuropsychological testing. Clinical studies in people with Parkinson's disease and prior stroke have not shown that trospium, darifenacin, or fesoterodine have a significant impact on cognitive measures. In summary, oxybutynin and tolterodine may pose a higher risk of cognitive impairment than newer OAB anticholinergics in people with NLUTD; there is no evidence that children with SB experience cognitive impairment with OAB anticholinergics. Further study is necessary to confirm cognitive safety, particularly as the NLUTD population may have a high exposure to OAB anticholinergics. Advocating for potentially safer OAB medications is necessary if there is concern about cognitive risks.

Dehydration associates with lower urinary tract symptoms in progressive multiple sclerosis

BACKGROUND

Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are common in persons with progressive multiple sclerosis (pwPMS), who may consequently limit their fluid intake. We aimed to investigate the hypothesis that LUTS associate with objective evidence of inadequate hydration status in pwPMS.

METHODS

In this prospective study, 55 pwPMS were studied over 2 years. A 6-monthly first-morning urine specimen was analysed for urinary osmolality and sodium as hydration markers. LUTS symptom severity in three categories (urgency, voiding and discomfort) was assessed and quantified using a questionnaire. Correlation between LUTS severity and hydration was assessed within subjects and between subjects, controlling for age.

RESULTS

Some 274 urine samples with accompanying LUTS data from 55 participants were analysed. Biochemical data showed the expected loss of urine-concentrating capacity with increasing age. Inadequate hydration was observed in 47% of participants. LUTS were very common (87% reported urgency and 89% voiding symptoms). Voiding and discomfort, but not urgency severity, were correlated with hydration markers, both within and between participants.

CONCLUSIONS

LUTS are very common in pwPMS, and associate with inadequate hydration. The causes and consequences of inadequate hydration in MS need further study, since (i) this will focus greater attention on LUTS management in pwPMS and (ii) dehydration has been associated with reversible cognitive dysfunction and physical underperformance.

Arabic version of the SF-Qualiveen: cross-cultural adaptation, translation, and validation of urinary disorder-specific instruments in patients with multiple sclerosis

BACKGROUND

The Short Form Qualiveen (SF-Qualiveen) questionnaire assesses the effect of bladder and urinary symptoms on patients' quality of life (QoL) with urological impairment caused by neurological diseases. There is no validated SF-Qualiveen questionnaire in Arabic, so this study aims to provide a translated and validated version of the SF-Qualiveen questionnaire among Arabic-speaking patients with multiple sclerosis (MS).

METHODS

The English version of the SF-Qualiveen was translated into Arabic using an algorithm for linguistic and cultural adaptation. MS patients completed the SF-Qualiveen, and the Neurogenic Bladder Symptom Score(NBSS) questionnaire. Psychometric features such as content and construct validity, test-retest reliability, and internal consistency were analyzed. Construct validity was evaluated by contrasting the SF-Qualiveen with the NBSS questionnaire. Internal consistency was measured using Cronbach's alpha, whereas the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was employed to assess the test-retest reliability.

RESULTS

One hundred and two patients with MS were included in this study. The internal consistency of the total SF-Qualiveen, and the domains "Bother with limitations," "Fear," "Feeling," and "Frequency of limitations" showed good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha of > 0.7). ICC was 0.91 for the total score 0.85 for the Bother with limitations, 0.81 for Fears, 0.86 for Feeling, and 0.81 for Frequency of limitations. The correlation analysis revealed a positive association between the total scores on the NBSS and the domains of the SF-Qualiveen, comprising bother with limitations (r = 0.473, p = 0.027), fears (r = 0.611, p = 0.031), feelings (r = 0.572, p = 0.04), and frequency of limitations (r = 0.514, p = 0.013).

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of this validation study revealed that the SF-Qualiveen is a reliable and valid instrument appropriate for Arabic-speaking patients with MS in both research and clinical practice.

The association between multiple sclerosis and migraine: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic progressive condition marked by the deterioration of myelin and impairment of neurological function. The global prevalence of MS is approximately 2.2 million. Migraines are common in MS patients, with inconclusive data on their relationship. Our systematic review aimed to assess the prevalence and odds of migraine in pwMS and investigate the potential factors that may influence these associations.

METHOD

Through an extensive search and meticulous study selection, we identified pertinent literature investigating the occurrence and odds of migraines among pwMS. Additionally, we explored the comparative risk of migraines in MS patients compared to healthy controls. Data were extracted, including publication details, diagnostic criteria, and migraine prevalence in MS patients.

RESULTS

A total of 35 studies were included, involving 279,620 pwMS and 279,603 healthy controls. The overall prevalence of migraine in pwMS was 0.24 (95% CI: 0.21-0.28). Subgroup analyses and meta-regression were conducted to investigate the potential impact of various factors on the relationship between migraine and MS. These factors included age, duration of MS, study design, and the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), migraine diagnosis method, study design, publication year of the study, country and continent of the study population. The results of these analyses revealed no significant influence of these factors on the relationship between migraine and MS. The meta-analysis indicated that pwMS had significantly increased odds of having migraine compared to healthy controls (OR = 1.96, 95% CI: 1.20-3.20). Sensitivity analyses supported the robustness of the findings.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study highlights that approximately 24% of pwMS experience migraine. The method of diagnosis significantly affects the reported prevalence, with questionnaires yielding higher rates. Furthermore, pwMS have a 1.96-fold increased odds of having migraine compared to healthy individuals. These findings emphasize the importance of further research and interventions to address the significant burden of migraine in the MS population.

[Imaging of the pelvic floor : The urological perspective]

BACKGROUND

Physiological pelvic floor function is essential for maintaining the appropriate storage and voiding function of the lower urinary tract. Disorders of pelvic floor function can consist of both hypofunction and hyperfunction and can result in urge symptoms, urinary incontinence, disorders of the micturition process, urinary retention, and chronic pelvic floor pain, as well as endangering the upper urinary tract. Thus, these disorders can be complex in their cause and effect. An exact diagnosis and initiation of a target-specific therapy of the respective functional disorder can only be achieved by the interaction of functional and imaging diagnostics.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this article is therefore to present these special imaging techniques from the perspective of functional urology and neuro-urology.

METHODS

This paper presents the available imaging techniques in the diagnosis of pelvic floor dysfunction and places them in the diagnostic context of lower urinary tract dysfunction.

[Neurology meets Urology : Overview of urologically relevant neurological diseases]

In addition to the classical neurourological diseases multiple sclerosis and paraplegia/spina bifida, there are many and also widely spread diseases of the neurological spectrum that can result in significant dysfunctions of the urinary tract. Depending on the location (cerebral/suprapontine, spinal/suprasacral, spinal infrasacral and peripheral), different disorders can result (detrusor overactivity and underactivity, sphincter dyssynergia and low compliance). Changes can also occur over the course of an illness and thus make the analysis of the respective disorder even more difficult. Not all patients present directly to a neurourological center and in some cases the connection is not directly apparent. Firstly, this article focuses on the urological relevance of the respective neurological disease. Secondly, the basic neurourological information should support the initial assessment of the disorder.

Tissue Engineering and Stem Cell Therapy in Neurogenic Bladder Dysfunction: Current and Future Perspectives

Tissue engineering (TE) is a rapidly evolving biomedical discipline that can play an important role in treating neurogenic bladder dysfunction and compensating for current conventional options' shortcomings. This review aims to analyze the current status of preclinical and clinical trials and discuss what could be expected in the future based on the current state of the art. Although most preclinical studies provide promising results on the effectiveness of TE and stem cell therapies, the main limitations are mainly the very slow translation of preclinical trials to clinical trials, lack of quality research on neurogenic preconditions of neurogenic bladder dysfunction outside of the spinal cord injury and varying therapeutic methods of the existing research that lacks a standardized approach.

Treatment of neurogenic detrusor overactivity and overactive bladder with Botox (onabotulinumtoxinA): Development, insights, and impact

Neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO) is a complication of multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury (SCI), stroke, head injury, and other conditions characterized by damage to the upper motor neuronal system. NDO often leads to high bladder pressure that may cause upper urinary tract damage and urinary incontinence (UI). Prior to the use of onabotulinumtoxinA, oral anticholinergics and surgical augmentation cystoplasty were the treatment options. Overactive bladder (OAB) is non-neurogenic and affects a much larger population than NDO. Both NDO and OAB negatively impact patients' quality of life (QOL) and confer high health care utilization burdens. Early positive results from pioneering investigators who injected onabotulinumtoxinA into the detrusor of patients with SCI caught the interest of Allergan, which then initiated collaborative clinical trials that resulted in FDA approval of onabotulinumtoxinA 200U in 2011 for NDO and 100U in 2013 for patients with OAB who inadequately respond to or are intolerant of an anticholinergic. These randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials for NDO showed significant improvements in UI episodes, urodynamic parameters, and QOL; the most frequent adverse events were urinary tract infection (UTI) and urinary retention. Similarly, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials of onabotulinumtoxinA 100U for OAB found significant improvements in UI episodes, treatment benefit, and QOL; UTI and dysuria were the most common adverse events. Long-term studies in NDO and OAB showed sustained effectiveness and safety with repeat injections of onabotulinumtoxinA, the use of which has profoundly improved the QOL of patients failing anticholinergic therapy and has expanded the utilization of onabotulinumtoxinA into smooth muscle.

Epidemiological Insights on Medication Concurrency and Polypharmacy in People With Multiple Sclerosis in Greece

BACKGROUND

Besides disease-modifying therapies, various pharmacologic agents are frequently prescribed to people with multiple sclerosis (MS) for symptom treatment and for comorbid conditions. The present study aims to investigate the types and frequencies of agents prescribed to people with MS in Greece using records from the nationwide digital prescription database.

METHODS

Prescription records for 21,218 people (65.9% women) with MS were included in the study. The criterion for study inclusion was a minimum of 3 months of continuous prescription of an agent. Identified treatments were further examined by age group.

RESULTS

Antispasticity agents (17.5%) and fampridine (14.5%) were the most regularly prescribed symptomatic medications. Antihypertensives (21.1%) and drugs for affective disorders, including antidepressants (36.1%) and anxiolytics (16.2%), were the most frequently prescribed medications for comorbid conditions. Antidepressants were prescribed at almost equally high rates among individuals older than 40 years. Hypertension was one of the leading comorbidities among the study sample, with rates rising significantly after age 40 years and plateauing after age 60 years. Polypharmacy was observed in 22.5% of the study sample, with a higher incidence among people with MS older than 60 years (46.98%).

CONCLUSIONS

Agents prescribed for the treatment of disease symptoms and other medical conditions are expected to positively affect quality of life in people with MS. However, polypharmacy seems to be particularly high, especially in the aged population. The potential implications of polypharmacy in the disease course should further be explored.

Multiple sclerosis and lower urinary tract symptoms: A survey of prevalence, characteristic and urological evaluations

Objective

Most multiple sclerosis patients have urological complications such as lower urinary tract symptoms. This study was conducted to evaluate the prevalence of these symptoms and whether they result in a urological evaluation.

Methods

A cross-sectional study of 517 multiple sclerosis patients at Tehran's referral multiple sclerosis center and neurology clinics between 2018 and 2022 was performed. Data were collected through interviews after patients completed informed consent forms. Urological examinations, including urine analysis and ultrasonography, were evaluated as final assessments. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical tests in Statistical Package for Social Science.

Results

Among all participants, the prevalence of lower urinary tract symptoms was 73% (n = 384), with urgency (44.8% n = 232) being the most common symptom. The prevalence of intermittency was significantly higher among women (p = 0.004). There was no gender-significant difference in terms of the prevalence of other symptoms (p > 0.050). Lower urinary tract symptoms were significantly correlated with age, clinical course, disease duration, and disability (p < 0.001). Additionally, 37.3% and 18.7% of patients with lower urinary tract symptoms, as well as 17.9% and 37.5% of patients with multiple sclerosis attacks, respectively, had undergone urine analysis and ultrasonography.

Conclusion

Multiple sclerosis patients rarely undergo urological evaluations during the course of their disease. Proper assessment is essential as these symptoms are among the most detrimental manifestations of this disease.

Autonomic nervous system disorders in multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic progressive demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS), which also affects the autonomic nervous system (ANS). Manifestations of MS in the ANS include urological, sexual, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and thermoregulatory disorders as well as increased fatigue. These problems are common yet are often underestimated due to the non-specificity of the symptoms and the limited evaluation of the ANS in the usual clinical practice. Most of these symptoms seem to be related to localized lesions in the CNS. However, the mechanisms by which these disorders are caused in MS have not been fully investigated, thus preventing any focused etiological treatment. The most common disorders of the ANS in MS represent a challenge for clinicians due to the variability of the clinical picture and our minimal data on their diagnosis and treatment. Early diagnosis and initiation of individualized treatment regimens, often in need of multiple approaches, seem to yield the best results in managing ANS dysfunction in MS patients.

Nabiximols oromucosal spray in patients with multiple sclerosis-related bladder dysfunction: A prospective study

BACKGROUND

Spasticity and urinary disturbances can profoundly impact the daily lives of persons with multiple sclerosis (pwMS). Cannabis has been associated with improvement in sphincteric disturbances. To our knowledge, few studies have evaluated the effect of nabiximols oromucosal spray (Sativex®) on urinary disturbances by instrumental methods.

OBJECTIVES

This longitudinal study was conducted to assess the effect of nabiximols oromucosal spray on urinary disturbances by clinical and urodynamic evaluation in pwMS.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Neurological, spasticity, and quality of life (QoL) assessments were performed before (T0), and at one (T1) and six (T6) months after the start of nabiximols treatment. At these same time points, patients were assessed for urinary disturbances by the International Prostatic Symptoms Score (IPSS) and a urodynamic test evaluating maximum detrusor pressure (P_det), bladder filling capacity (CC_max), uninhibited detrusor contractions (UDC), bladder volume at first desire (BVFD), post-void residual volume (PVR) and voluntary abdominal pressure (PA).

RESULTS

Of 31 pwMS enrolled in the study, 25 reached T1 and 18 reached T6. Mean IPSS total score, its subscores, and IPSS QoL decreased significantly from T0 to T6 (p = 0.000), with no differences according to sex, age, MS type, disease duration and disability at baseline. P_det improved significantly from T0 to T6 (p = 0.0171), and CC_max changed only marginally (p = 0.0494); results were similar in patient subgroups naïve to or previously exposed to urological treatment. All patients with overactive bladder showed improvement in their urodynamic assessment based on significant reduction of P_det (p = 0.0138). In patients with mainly hypotonic bladder, mean P_det decreased from T0 to T6 without reaching statistical significance; most urodynamic parameters showed a trend to improve. Mean numerical scale scores for MS spasticity, and for spasms, pain and tremors, decreased significantly from T0 to T6. The mean 'physical health composite' score of the MS Quality of Life-54 questionnaire increased significantly from T0 to T6 (p = 0.0126).

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Our data suggest that nabiximols has an appreciable effect on ameliorating subjective perception of urinary disturbances and appears to have a positive effect on objective urodynamic parameters, particularly in patients with hyperactive bladder.

Robot-assisted laparoscopic cystectomy with non-continent urinary diversion for neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction: Midterm outcomes

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to assess midterm functional outcomes and complications of robot-assisted laparoscopic cystectomy with non-continent urinary diversion in patients with neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed a retrospective single center study including all patients who underwent robot-assisted laparoscopic cystectomy with non-continent urinary diversion between January 2008 and December 2018 for neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction. Perioperative data, early and late complications, reoperation rate, renal function, and patient satisfaction (PGI-I) were evaluated.

RESULTS

One hundred and forty patients were included (70 multiple sclerosis, 37 spinal cord injuries, 33 others) with a median follow-up of 29 months (12-49). The main indication for surgery was an inability to perform intermittent self-catheterization (n = 125, 89%). The early complication rate (<30 days) was 41% (n = 58), including 72% (n = 45) minor complications (Clavien I-II) and 29% (n = 17) major complications (Clavien III-V). Three patients died in the early postoperative period. Late complications appear in 41% (n = 57), with 9% (n = 13) being ureteroileal anastomotic stricture. The overall reintervention rate was 19% (n = 27), mainly for lithiasis surgery. Pre- and postoperative renal function were comparable. Most of patients reported an improvement in their quality of life following their surgery (PGI-I 1-2).

CONCLUSION

Robot-assisted laparoscopic cystectomy with non-continent urinary diversion may be of particular interest in patients with neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction who are unable to benefit from conservative treatment, as it provides midterm protection of the upper urinary tract and an improvement in quality of life.

The relationship between severity of overactive bladder symptoms and cognitive dysfunction, anxiety and depression in female patients with multiple sclerosis: Running head: OAB-V8, BICAMS and HAD scale in MS

BACKGROUND

Overactive bladder (OAB), cognitive dysfunction, depression and anxiety are common problems encountered in MS. This study was planned to investigate the relationship between the severity of OAB symptoms and cognitive function, anxiety and depression in MS.

METHODS

100 patients with MS diagnosis with OAB symptoms were recruited. OAB symptoms was assessed with the OAB-V8 questionnaire. Symbol Digit Modalites Test (SDMT), California Verbal Learning Test II (CVLT-II) and Brief Vasospatial Memory Test-Revised (BVMT-R) in BICAMS Battery were used to evaluate cognitive function. Depression and anxiety were assessed with the Hospital Anxiety Depression (HAD) Scale.

RESULTS

The mean age of the patients was 40.9±12.3, the duration of the disease was 9.03±6.89 years, and the mean OAB-V8 score was 17.6±8.9. SDMT test (r=-0.299, p<0.01) showed a moderately significant, CVLT-II (r= -0.219, p<0.05) and BVMT-R (r=-0.218, p<0.05) tests showed a weakly significant negative correlation with OAB-V8 score. There was a moderate positive correlation between the OAB-V8 score and HAD-D (r=0.279, p=0.005) and HAD-A (r=0.318, p=0.001) scores. SDMT and BVMT-R scores were significantly lower in anticholinergic (Ach) drug users (especially oxybutynin users) compared to those who did not use Ach drugs.

CONCLUSIONS

It has been observed that the severity of OAB symptoms is related to worsening of information processing speed and an increase in depression and anxiety. It has been determined that there is a significant effect on information processing speed, visual learning and memory in patients using Ach drugs, especially in those using oxybutynin, compared to those who do not use Ach drugs.

Neurogenic Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction in Asymptomatic Patients with Multiple Sclerosis

Neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD) in asymptomatic patients with MS has been described in preliminary studies, but specific investigations of this topic are rare. Many authors advise early diagnosis and treatment of NLUTD in patients with MS. In contrast, clinical practice and different guidelines recommend neuro-urological diagnostics only in the presence of symptoms. Our aim was to investigate the characteristics of NLUTD and the correlations of clinical parameters with NLUTD in asymptomatic patients with MS. We evaluated bladder diaries, urodynamic findings, and therapy proposals. Correlations of the voided volume, voiding frequency, urinary tract infections, and uroflowmetry including post-void residual with the urodynamic findings were determined. In our study, 26% of the patients were asymptomatic. Of these, 73.7% had urodynamic findings indicative of NLUTD, 21.1% had detrusor overactivity, 13.2% had detrusor underactivity, 13.2% detrusor overactivity and detrusor sphincter dyssynergia, and 57.9% had radiologically abnormal findings of the bladder. No patients presented low bladder compliance or renal reflux. Clinical parameters from the bladder diary and urinary tract infections were found to be correlated with NLUTD, and the absence of symptoms did not exclude NLUTD in patients with MS. We observed that urinary tract damage is already present in a relevant proportion. Based on our results, we recommend that patients with MS be screened for NLUTD regardless of the subjective presence of urinary symptoms or the disease stage.

Renal diseases associated with multiple sclerosis: A narrative review

The mechanisms of renal pathology in multiple sclerosis (MS) can be related to the disease itself or its treatment. Although kidney disease can be associated with MS, not much has been reported in the literature; hence, our study aimed to describe the prevalence and types of renal diseases and discuss their prognosis in patients with MS. A literature search (2012-2022) was performed using the Scale for the Assessment of Narrative Review Articles. The databases searched included MEDLINE (PubMed) and EMBASE. Fourteen articles from these databases met the inclusion criteria. The inclusion criteria were as follows: publications with full-text access. Articles published in English. Original articles related to renal diseases in MS. The prevalence of renal diseases in MS from the articles obtained ranged from 0.74% to 2.49%. Interferon beta (IFN-β)-associated glomerulonephritis was common among the reviewed articles. Significant improvement and resolution of the pathology were observed after the discontinuation of the offending medication. Renal symptoms in 2 out of 4 cases with renal thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) induced by interferon-beta progressed to chronic kidney disease, even after the drug was stopped. Other studied renal pathologies included nephrolithiasis secondary to urinary retention and urinary catheter use in patients with MS.

Association of multiple sclerosis with mortality in sepsis: a population-level analysis

Background

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is associated with increased risk of sepsis and higher sepsis-related mortality, compared to the general population. However, the evidence on the prognostic impact of MS in sepsis has been scarce. We aimed to evaluate the population-level association of MS with short-term mortality in sepsis.

Methods

We performed a retrospective population-based cohort study using a statewide data set to identify hospitalizations aged ≥ 18 years in Texas with sepsis, with and without MS during 2010–2017. Multilevel logistic models were fit to estimate the association of MS with short-term mortality among all sepsis hospitalizations, and for sensitivity analyses among hospitalizations with septic shock and those admitted to ICU.

Results

Among 283,025 sepsis hospitalizations, 1687 (0.6%) had MS. Compared to sepsis hospitalizations without MS, those with MS were younger (aged ≥ 65 years 35.0% vs 56.8%), less commonly racial/ethnic minority (36.2% vs 48.1%), and had lower mean Deyo comorbidity index (1.6 vs 2.7). The rates of septic shock and ICU admission were similar for sepsis hospitalizations with and without MS (58.7% vs 59.6% and 46.7% vs 46.0%, respectively). The unadjusted short-term mortality among sepsis hospitalizations with and without MS for the whole cohort, among those with septic shock, and among ICU admissions were 20.2% vs 31.3%, 25.6% vs 40.0%, and 24.0% vs 34.8%, respectively. On adjusted analyses, MS was associated with 17% lower odds of short-term mortality (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.828 [95% CI 0.723–0.947]). Similar findings were observed on sensitivity analyses of patients with septic shock (aOR 0.764 [95% CI 0.651–0.896]), but MS was not associated with mortality among sepsis hospitalizations admitted to ICU (aOR 0.914 [95% CI 0.759–1.101]).

Conclusions

MS was associated with lower short-term mortality among septic patients, with findings consistent among the subset with septic shock. Among septic patients admitted to ICU, MS was not associated with mortality.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40560-022-00628-1.

Is EDSS Enough to Predict Risk of Upper Urinary Tract Damage in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis?

Lower urinary tract dysfunction is often observed in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and may be responsible for an increased risk of upper urinary tract (UUT) damage. Although there are well-known urodynamic risk factors for UUT damage, no clinical prediction parameters are clearly identified. We aimed to confirm the accuracy of the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) in predicting urodynamic risk factors for UUT deterioration and to assess other clinical parameters potentially predicting urodynamic risk factors. We retrospectively reviewed 201 patients with MS referred for primary neuro-urological work-up, including a video-urodynamic study (VUDS) from August 2009 to February 2020. Multivariate modeling revealed EDSS, male gender, and a number of LUTS as clinical parameters significantly associated with urodynamic risk factors for UUT damage (p = 0.06, p = 0.01, p = 0.02, respectively). A nomogram combining EDSS, male gender, and a number of different LUTS was created to predict the presence of at least one urodynamic risk factor for UUT damage. In conclusion, the presence of high EDSS combined with male gender and several different LUTS is significantly associated with urodynamic risk factors and can be used to stratify MS patients for further neuro-urological assessment and treatment.

Neurologic Urinary Incontinence, Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms and Sexual Dysfunctions in Multiple Sclerosis: Expert Opinions Based on the Review of Current Evidences

Objective: To resume each specialist’s role in the management of neurologic urinary tract symptoms (nLUTS) and sexual dysfunctions (SD) in patients suffering from multiple sclerosis (MS). Material and Methods: We asked a neurologist, a urologist and a gynecologist, experts on neuro-urology and sexual dysfunction at our hospital, to resume their role in the management of nLUTS and SD in MS patients based on the review of current evidence. PubMed was used to review literature with a focus on nLUTS and SD in MS patients. Conclusions: The difference in symptomatology in MS patients is very wide. The more the CNS is involved, the more the variations and severity of nLUTS is present. SD have numerous causes and should always be assessed. Urologists play the director’s role in evaluating and treating these patients. Neurologist should play an important role, they must evaluate the potential mutual interactions between disease manifestations of MS and their treatments. Additionally, gynecologists play an important information sharing role in the management of patients with multiple sclerosis.

French AFU Cancer Committee Guidelines - Update 2022-2024: Non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC)

OBJECTIVE

To update the ccAFU recommendations for the management of bladder tumours that do not infiltrate the bladder muscle (NBMIC).

METHODS

A systematic review (Medline) of the literature from 2020 to 2022 was performed, taking account of the diagnosis, treatment options and surveillance of NMIBC, while evaluating the references with their levels of evidence.

RESULTS

The diagnosis of NMIBC (Ta, T1, CIS) is made after complete full-thickness tumour resection. The use of bladder fluorescence and the indication of a second look (4-6 weeks) help to improve the initial diagnosis. The EORTC score is used to assess the risk of recurrence and/or tumour progression. Through the stratification of patients in low, intermediate and high-risk categories, adjuvant treatment can be proposed: intravesical chemotherapy (immediate postoperative, initiation regimen) or BCG (initiation and maintenance regimen) instillations, or even the indication of cystectomy for BCG-resistant patients.

CONCLUSION

Updating the ccAFU recommendations should contribute to improving patient management, as well as the diagnosis and treatment of NMIBC.

Definitions of Urinary Tract Infection Used in Interventional Studies Involving Neurourological Patients-A Systematic Review

CONTEXT

Neurourological patients often encounter bacteriuria without any symptoms or may experience symptoms suspicious of urinary tract infections (UTIs). However, there is a lack of guidelines that unequivocally state the definition of UTIs in this specific patient group.

OBJECTIVE

To present all used definitions of UTIs in neurourological patients.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

This systematic review was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) statement. Studies were identified by electronic search of Medline, Embase, Cochrane controlled trials databases, and clinicaltrial.gov without a time limitation (last search September 2020) and by screening of reference lists and reviews. The occurrences of the various UTI definitions were counted and the frequencies calculated.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

After screening 7164 abstracts, we included 32 studies enrolling a total of 8488 patients with a neurourological disorder who took part in an interventional clinical study. UTI definitions were heterogeneous. The concordance to predefined definitions was low.

CONCLUSIONS

Interventional clinical studies rarely report specific definitions for UTIs, and both clinical and laboratory criteria used are heterogeneous. A generally accepted UTI definition for neurourological patients is urgently needed.

PATIENT SUMMARY

Patients suffering from neurological disorders often experience symptoms in their lower urinary tract that resemble urinary tract infections. Furthermore, they can have positive urine cultures without symptoms (the so-called asymptomatic bacteriuria). However, clinical studies rarely report specific definitions for urinary tract infections, and when it is done, they are heterogeneous. A generally accepted urinary tract infection definition for neurourological patients is urgently needed. TAKE  HOME MESSAGE: Interventional clinical studies on neurourological patients rarely report specific definitions for urinary tract infections (UTIs), and both clinical and laboratory criteria used are heterogeneous. A generally accepted UTI definition for neurourological patients is urgently needed.

Sacral neuromodulation for neurological disease-induced lower urinary tract symptoms in Saudi Arabia: a single-centre experience

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of sacral neuromodulation therapy (SNM) for lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) caused by neurological diseases.

Methods

This prospective cohort study enrolled patients that developed LUTS secondary to neurological disorders. All patients underwent staged SNM. A 5-day voiding diary was used to evaluate their response to the stage 1 procedure. Implantation of the full system during the stage 2 procedure was undertaken in patients that had ≥50% improvement on their voiding diary.

Results

Twenty-one patients were included in the study with the following neurological aetiologies: diabetes mellitus (n = 2), myelitis (n = 3), multiple sclerosis (n = 5), spinal cord injury (n = 10) and cerebrovascular accident (n = 1). Fifteen patients underwent the stage 1 procedure successfully; their mean age was 47.5 years and the mean follow-up was 29 months. SNM resulted in significantly increased voided volume/void/day, decreased leaking episodes/day, decreased postvoiding residual/day and decreased number of clean intermittent catheterization/day compared with baseline. Five patients were highly satisfied, nine were moderately satisfied and one patient was not satisfied with the therapy.

Conclusion

SNM was an effective therapy for LUTS caused by neurological disease and there was a high rate of patient satisfaction.

Risk of serious infections in multiple sclerosis patients by disease course and disability status: Results from a Swedish register-based study

Background and objectives

Serious infections are an emerging concern with increasing use of potent immunomodulation in multiple sclerosis (MS), but the extent to which MS disease features influence infectious susceptibility is poorly characterized. The objective of this study was to assess the associations of MS disease course and disability status with risk of serious infections.

Methods

A cohort of 8660 MS patients was individually matched on age, sex and region of residence with 86,600 people without MS from the general population using national registers in Sweden. The study period was from 1996 to 2012, with follow-up until December 31, 2014. The main outcomes were infection as the underlying or contributory cause of death or infection-related hospital admission identified in the Cause of Death and Patient registers. MS disease course (relapsing-remitting or progressive disease) and Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score (six and over or below six) were extracted from the MS Register Hazard ratios (HRs) for any serious infection were estimated using flexible parametric models.

Results

During a median follow-up of 9.6 years (interquartile range = 5.5-13.5 years), 1337 MS patients experienced a serious infection. Compared with individually matched people without MS, risk of serious infection was greater for progressive disease (HR = 3.80; 95% CI 3.52: 4.09) than relapsing-remitting disease (HR = 1.77; 95% CI: 1.62:1.93). A similar pattern of risk was seen for dichotomised EDSS score (HR = 4.26; 95% CI 3.87: 4.70 for EDSS 6.0-9.5 and HR = 1.30; 95% CI 1.1853: 1.43 for EDSS 0.0-5.5). Overall, associations with greater disability did not notably differ by immunomodulatory therapy use, but associations with lower disability were more pronounced in patients receiving these therapies.

Conclusions

Disease course or EDSS score (which may be more readily available than MS course in some patients) should be considered in individual management and monitoring of MS patients, including assessing benefit-risk of therapies that influence general immune function.

Non-continent urinary diversion (ileal conduit) as salvage therapy in patients with refractory lower urinary tract dysfunctions due to multiple sclerosis: results of a national cohort from the French Association of Urology (AFU) Neurourology Committee and the French-speaking Neurourology Study Group (GENULF)

OBJECTIVE

To describe the outcomes of ileal conduit as a salvage therapy for refractory lower urinary tract dysfunctions (LUTDs) due to multiple sclerosis (MS) in a national neurourology referral center network.

METHODS

A retrospective multicenter French study was carried out to identify MS patients who underwent non-continent urinary diversion for refractory LUTDs from January 2010 to December 2015. Multiple sclerosis status, urological history, surgical indication and technique, postoperative complications, renal anatomy and function at last follow-up as well as number of rehospitalizations for urinary tract infections (UTI) were collected. Preoperative and postoperative urinary-related quality of life (urQoL) through the Qualiveen^TM short-form questionnaire (QSF^TM) and patient global impression of improvement (PGI-I) were collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

Overall, 10 centers identified 211 patients with a mean age of 54±11 and mean preoperative EDSS (expanded disability status scale) score of 7.3±0.9. The main indication for diversion was MS progression leading to impossible intermittent self-catheterization (55%). Cystectomy was performed either by open (34.6%), laparoscopic (39.3%) or robotic (21.8%) approach (unknown: 4.2%) with cystectomy in all cases. Early complications were reported in 42% of the patients, mainly Clavien I or II grades. There was no difference in GFR (glomerular filtration rate) after surgery. After diversion, patients had fewer hospitalizations for UTI and better urQoL on QSF™ confirmed by evaluation of PGI-I.

CONCLUSION

This study, reporting the largest series of ileal conduit in selected MS patients with end-stage LUTDs, showed significant improvement in symptomatic UTI and quality of life with a low high-grade complication rate.

Impact on quality of life in multiple sclerosis patients: Which urinary symptoms are to blame?

AIM

To evaluate the correlation between the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) in multiple sclerosis (MS) subjects, and the severity of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), the bother caused by these symptoms and subjects' quality of life (QoL).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This cross-sectional study included 50 subjects with persistent LUTS secondary to MS who were recruited from the registry of a national NGO, between October 2017 and November 2019. Subjects with a history of any disease besides MS that could otherwise explain the presence of LUTS, as well as those with other neurological conditions were excluded. Information including MS duration, subjects' EDSS, voiding and storage LUTS, voiding symptoms' subscore of the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS-V), Overactive Bladder Symptom Scores (OABSS), Urinary Bothersome Questionnaire in Multiple Sclerosis (UBQMS), and urologic QoL (SF-Qualiveen) was gathered. Correlations between these scores were assessed using Spearman's bivariate correlations. Wilcoxon's signed rank test was used to evaluate the difference of impact between voiding and storage LUTS on bother of subjects.

RESULTS

The median disease duration was 7±5.8years and the predominant lower urinary symptom was urgency (82%). Median OABSS and IPSS-V were respectively 8±3.8 and 8±3. Subjects were significantly more bothered from storage than voiding symptoms (2 vs. 1.6; P=0.03), and their QoL was directly affected by storage LUTS. Urgency urinary incontinence had the highest positive correlation with SFQ (r=0.542; P<0.01). MS duration and urologic QoL measured by SF-Q were negatively correlated (r=-0.345; P=0.01).

CONCLUSION

In MS patients with LUTS, urologic QoL is mainly affected by storage urinary symptoms. Physicians should use a holistic approach to reduce the risk of complications in these patients, by controlling both voiding and storage symptoms, in particular urgency urinary incontinence that mostly affects patient's QoL.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 3

Incidence and safety outcomes associated with active stone removal procedures (ASRP): a comparison between neurological and non-neurological patients using the French National Health Data Base

PURPOSE

To compare the incidence and the safety outcomes associated with active stone removal procedure (ASRP) between neurological and non-neurological patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The present study was conducted using the data issued from the French National Health Data Base. All patients that have been hospitalized to undergo an ASRP between January 1 2012 and December 31 2018 were included and allocated to four neurological groups (multiple sclerosis, spinal dysraphism, paraplegia, tetraplegia) and one non-neurological group. The primary outcome was the rate of patients hospitalized at least once to undergo an ASRP over the study period. The secondary outcomes included the type of ASRP performed, the length of hospital stay, the rates of post-operative UTI, of early re-admission and re-treatments. Multivariate logistic regression was used to estimate odd ratios, the four neurological groups being compared to the non-neurological group.

RESULTS

During the study period, 45,745,055 patients were hospitalised, with 151,850 of them presenting with an underlying neurological disease. Among the non-neurological patients, 0.89% underwent an ASRP, while 1.39% neurological patients did. Neurological patients presented with a lower rate of ESWL associated with a higher rate of PCNL, while the length of hospital stay, the rate of post-operative UTI, of early re-admission and of re-treatment were systematically increased (p < 0.001), when compared to non-neurological patients, regardless of the type of ASRP considered.

CONCLUSIONS

The results presented here confirm and clarify the incidence and the safety outcomes associated with ASRP within the neurological population and advocate for the emergence of a dedicated research field focusing on neuro-urolithiasis.

Management of bladder dysfunction in multiple sclerosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies regarding bladder rehabilitation

INTRODUCTION

The aim of the study was to investigate the efficacy of rehabilitation programs for bladder disorders in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and to guide physicians in delineating therapeutic tools and programs for physiatrists, using the best current strategies.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A search was conducted on PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library and Web of Science. Studies were eligible if they included adults with bladder disorders related to MS and described specific treatments of rehabilitation interest. The search identified 190,283 articles using the key words "multiple sclerosis" AND "rehabilitation" AND "urinary" OR "bladder," of which the reviewers analyzed 81 full-texts; 21 publications met the criteria and were included in the systematic review.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

The systematic review identified the specific rehabilitation treatments reported in the current literature. The meta-analysis compared the scores and scales used to quantify bladder disorders due to MS, both before and after rehabilitation or in a comparison with a control group.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study suggests the need of a specific therapeutic protocol, based on the degree of disability and symptom complexity in patients with MS-related neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD). Particularly, the meta-analysis shows the effectiveness of peripheral tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS) and pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) for neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO). However, the goal of physiotherapy is to treat incontinence without making urinary retention worse and vice-versa, reducing the loss of urine urgency, while ensuring the emptying of the bladder.

[Prioritization of risk situations in neuro-urology: Guidelines based on the Delphi method from Association française d'urologie (AFU), Association francophone internationale des groupes d'animation de la paraplégie (AFIGAP), Groupe de neuro-urologie de langue française (GENULF), Société française de médecine physique et de réadaptation (SOFMER) and Société interdisciplinaire francophone d'urodynamique et de pelvi-périnéologie (SIFUD-PP)]

PURPOSE

During the COVID-19 pandemic, a care reorganization was mandatory, and affected patients in different areas, including management of neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction. This work aims to provide validated schedule concerning the assessment and management of patients in neuro-urology.

METHODS

Based on a literature review and their own expertise, a steering committee composed of urologists and physical medicine and rehabilitation practitioners generated a comprehensive risk-situation list and built a risk scale. A panel of French-speaking experts in neuro-urology was asked to define the timing for each clinical situation and validated these new recommendations through a Delphi process approach.

RESULTS

The 49 experts included in the rating group validated 163 propositions among the 206 initial items. The propositions were divided into four domains - diagnosis and assessment, treatment, follow-up, and complications - and two sub-domains - general (applicable for all neurological conditions) and condition-specific (varying according to the neurological condition (spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, brain injury, Parkinsonism, spinal dysraphism, lower motor neuron lesions)).

CONCLUSIONS

This multidisciplinary collaborative work generates recommendations based on expert opinion, providing a validated timing for assessment and management of patients in neuro-urology which may help clinicians to reorganize their patients' list with a personalized medicine approach, in a context of health crisis or not.

The Efficacy of Cannabis on Multiple Sclerosis-Related Symptoms

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is known as an autoimmune disease that damages the neurons in the central nervous system. MS is characterized by its most common symptoms of spasticity, muscle spasms, neuropathic pain, tremors, bladder dysfunction, dysarthria, and some intellectual problems, including memory disturbances. Several clinical studies have been conducted to investigate the effects of cannabis on the relief of these symptoms in MS patients. The efficacy of Cannabis sativa (C. Sativa) in the management of MS outcomes such as spasticity, pain, tremors, ataxia, bladder functions, sleep, quality of life, and adverse effects were assessed in this review. Most clinical studies showed the positive effects of cannabinoids with their different routes of administration, such as oromucosal spray and oral form, in reducing most MS symptoms. The oromucosal spray Nabiximols demonstrated an improvement in reducing MS spasticity, pain, and quality of life with a tolerated adverse effect. Oral cannabinoids are significantly effective for treating MS pain and spasticity, while the other symptoms indicate slight improvement and the evidence is quite inconsistent. Oromucosal spray and oral cannabis are mainly used for treating patients with MS and have positive effects on treating the most common symptoms of MS, such as pain and spasticity, whereas the other MS symptoms indicated slight improvement, for which further studies are needed.

Clinical Predictors of Neurogenic Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction in Persons with Multiple Sclerosis

Background: Multiple sclerosis patients often develop neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction with a potential risk of upper urinary tract damage. Diagnostic tools are urodynamics, bladder diary, uroflowmetry, and post-void residual, but recommendations for their use are controversial. Objective: We aimed to identify clinical parameters indicative of neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction in multiple sclerosis patients. Methods: 207 patients were prospectively assessed independent of the presence of lower urinary tract symptoms. We analyzed Expanded Disability Status Scale scores, uroflowmetry, post-void residual, rate of urinary tract infections, standardized voiding frequency, and voided volume in correlation with urodynamic findings. Results: We found a significant correlation between post-void residual (odds ratio (OR) 4.17, confidence interval (CI) 1.20–22.46), urinary tract infection rate (OR 3.91, CI 1.13–21.0), voided volume (OR 4.53, CI 1.85–11.99), increased standardized voiding frequency (OR 7.40, CI 2.15–39.66), and urodynamic findings indicative of neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction. Expanded Disability Status Scale shows no correlation. Those parameters (except post-void residual) are also associated with reduced bladder compliance, as potential risk for kidney damage. Conclusion: Therefore, bladder diary and urinary tract infection rate should be routinely assessed to identify patients who require urodynamics.

The burden of sepsis in critically ill patients with multiple sclerosis: A population-based cohort study

PURPOSE

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is associated with increased risk of critical illness, sepsis, and sepsis-related death, compared to the general population. The epidemiology of sepsis and its impact on the outcomes of critically ill patients with MS are unknown.

METHODS

A statewide dataset was used to identify retrospectively ICU admissions in Texas aged ≥18 years with a diagnosis of MS during 2010-2017. The prevalence of sepsis and its impact on inpatient resource utilization and short-term mortality (a combination of in-hospital death or discharge to hospice) were examined.

RESULTS

Among 19,837 ICU admissions with MS, 6244 (31.5%) had sepsis. Compared to ICU admissions without sepsis, those with sepsis were older (aged ≥65 years 34.1% vs 24.1%), less commonly racial/ethnic minority (32.6% vs 35.2%), and had higher mean [SD] Deyo comorbidity index (1.7 [1.8] vs 1.2 [1.7]). On adjusted analyses, sepsis was associated with 42.7% longer hospital length of stay and 26.2% higher total hospital charges. Risk-adjusted short-term mortality among ICU admissions with and without sepsis was 13.4% vs 3.3%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Sepsis was present in nearly 1 in 3 ICU admissions with MS, had substantial adverse impact on hospital resource utilization, and was associated with over 4-times higher short-term mortality.

Antimuscarinics for neurogenic overactive bladder in multiple sclerosis: real-life data

Background:

Antimuscarinics (AMs) represent the mainstay of treatment for storage lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) but few data are available on their impact in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients.

Objective:

To assess effectiveness and tolerability of AMs in MS patients with neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO).

Methods:

Sixty consecutive outpatients, who started treatment with AMs at one centre, were recruited. The primary endpoint was change in Patient’s Perception of Intensity of Urgency Scale (PPIUS) at 6 months; secondary endpoints were post-void residual urine (PVR) and pads used daily. Incidence and severity of adverse events (AEs) were recorded.

Results:

Significant reduction (p < 0.001) of mean PPIUS and pads use were detected, as well as a significant increase (p < 0.001) of PVR (143 ± 42 ml).

AEs, recorded in 53% of patients, were frequently multiple and caused suspension of AM in 10% of cases, mainly for xerostomia, which has been the commonest AE (26.6%). Neurological AEs appeared in 11.7% of subjects, mostly with oxybutynin. Worsening/onset of voiding LUTS, reported by 8.3% of MS, resulted to be the unique AE correlated to AM dosage.

Conclusion:

This study suggests that AMs are effective in MS patients, but their use should be tailored on every patient as even low dosages can be poorly tolerated. AEs, including neurological ones, are common.

Upper urinary tract function of patients with multiple sclerosis

BACKGROUND

Neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD) is frequent in multiple sclerosis (MS) and renal prognosis is a key point of bladder management.

OBJECTIVE

To assess upper urinary tract damage risk using voiding cystourethrography (VCUG) in patients with (PwMS) and NLUTD.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study between 2010 and 2020. Demographic data, urinary symptoms, urinary tract infection (UTI), renal ultrasounds findings, glomerular filtration rate (GFR), VCUG data, and urodynamic parameters were collected in PwMS with NLUTD.

RESULTS

Among 325 PwMS included, 67% were female, mean age was 51.6 ± 12.0 years, and mean EDSS 4.6 ± 1.8. VCUG showed vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) in 18 patients. A link was found between VUR and progressive MS course (p = 0.04), hydronephrosis (odds ratio [OR] = 17.44; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 3.46-87.87; p = 0.001), low GFR (p < 0.001), and detrusor overactivity (p = 0.04). No association with UTIs, EDSS, detrusor sphincter dyssynergia, were elicited. On multivariate analysis, alteration of GFR was independently related to the presence of VUR (OR = 0.95; 95% CI = 0.92-0.98).

CONCLUSIONS

VUR elicited on VCUG is associated with lower GFR and hydronephrosis. However, due to the low prevalence (5.5%) of this abnormality in PwMS, VCUG should be performed in selected cases and not in routinary practice.

The neurogenic bladder characteristics and treatment approaches in the patients with multiple sclerosis

OBJECTIVES

To analyze the neurogenic bladder characteristics and the treatment approaches in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) to facilitate proper and reasonable decisions in relevant patients.

DESIGN

Retrospective study.

SETTING

Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Ankara Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey.

PARTICIPANTS

Seventy-five patients diagnosed with MS between 2002 and 2015 were included in the study.

INTERVENTION

Urodynamic examination.

OUTCOME MEASURE

The detrusor type, detrusor compliance, sense of bladder fullness, storage disorder, emptying disorder, voided volume, post-void residual volume, urine culture, emptying method, and medical treatments were recorded.

RESULTS

The study included 53 females and 22 males with a mean age of 36 ± 10.1 years. Urodynamic examinations indicated that 74.7% of the patients had detrusor overactivity, 74.7% had detrusor hypocompliance, 77.3% had storage dysfunction, and 81.3% had emptying dysfunction. An anticholinergic medication was recommended to 74.7% of the patients, while alpha-adrenergic receptor blockers were recommended to 69.3%. The detrusor hypocompliance was more common in the group with a disease duration of ≥10 years (p = 0.045). The use of external collector systems was more common, and urine culture was more frequently positive for infections in the female patients (p = 0.001 and p = 0.049, respectively). The frequency of normal bladder-filling sensation was higher in women (p = 0.01). The frequencies of detrusor overactivity and storage and emptying disorders, voided and postvoid volumes (mL), and bladder emptying methods were not significantly different among the subgroups (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The study revealed a significant neurogenic bladder dysfunction and an inadequate management of this dysfunction in MS patients. Considering that the symptoms may progress over time, the urinary systems of MS patients should be evaluated periodically, and necessary modifications should be made in their treatments.

Latissimus dorsi detrusor myoplasty for bladder acontractility: a systematic review

Bladder acontractility affects several thousand patients in the United States, but the available therapies are limited. Latissimus dorsi detrusor myoplasty (LDDM) is a therapeutic option that allows patients with bladder acontractility to void voluntarily. Our goal was to conduct a systematic review of the literature to determine whether LDDM is a better option than clean intermittent catheterization (CIC) (standard treatment) in patients with bladder acontractility. On January 17, 2020, we conducted a systematic review of the PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane Clinical Answers, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Embase, and ClinicalTrials.gov databases, without time frame limitations, to identify articles on the use of LDDM for bladder acontractility. Of 75 potential articles, 4 fulfilled the eligibility criteria. The use of LDDM to treat patients with bladder acontractility was reported in four case series by the same group in Europe. Fifty-eight patients were included, and no comparison groups were included. The most common cause of bladder acontractility was spinal cord injury (n=36). The mean (±standard deviation) operative time was 536 (±22) minutes, postoperative length of hospital stay ranged from 10 to 13 days, and follow-up ranged from 9 to 68 months. Most patients had complete response, were able to void voluntarily, and had post-void residual volume less than 100 mL. Although promising outcomes have been obtained, evidence is still weak regarding whether LDDM is better than CIC to avoid impairment of the urinary tract among patients with bladder acontractility. Further prospective studies with control groups are necessary.

Experimental Studies of Latissimus Dorsi Detrusor Myoplasty for Bladder Acontractility: A Systematic Review

Current therapies that allow patients with bladder acontractility to void are limited. The standard therapy is clean intermittent catheterization. Latissimus dorsi detrusor myoplasty (LDDM) has been shown to provide functional contraction and allow patients with bladder acontractility to void voluntarily. Our goal was to summarize experimental studies of LDDM. We hypothesized that experimental studies would show that latissimus dorsi muscle (LDM) flaps for detrusor myoplasty have superior outcomes when compared with other types of flaps. On January 17, 2020, we conducted a systematic review of the PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane Clinical Answers, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and EMBASE databases, without time frame limitations, to identify articles on the use of LDDM. We excluded studies that investigated other treatments. Of 54 articles identified by the search, three fulfilled the eligibility criteria. A total of 24 dogs underwent procedures and were evaluated with a maximum follow-up of 9 months. Three types of procedures were performed: LDM in situ reconfiguration, LDM myoplasty, and augmentation cystoplasty after supratrigonal cystectomy. Electrical stimulation, cystography, urodynamic and hydrodynamic measurements, and microscopic examinations were performed. Innervated LDM flaps transferred to the bladder were able to contract and promote voiding in response to electrical stimulation. Experimental studies have shown the feasibility of LDDM in canine models. Although no comparison groups were included, innervated LDM flap transferred to the bladder showed promising results regarding contraction capable of voiding.