Ecological momentary assessment of pelvic pain and urinary urgency variability in urologic chronic pelvic pain syndrome and their association with illness impact and quality of life: Findings from the multidisciplinary approach to the study of chronic pelvic pain symptom patterns study

PURPOSE

This study tested the hypothesis that ecological momentary assessment (EMA) of pelvic pain (PP) and urinary urgency (UU) would reveal unique Urologic Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (UCPPS) phenotypes that would be associated with disease specific quality of life (QOL) and illness impact metrics (IIM).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A previously validated smart phone app (M-app) was provided to willing Multidisciplinary Approach to the Study of Chronic Pelvic Pain (MAPP) participants. M-app notifications were sent 4-times daily for 14 days inquiring about PP and UU severity. A clustering algorithm that accounted for variance placed participants into PP and UU variability? clusters. Associations between clusters and QOL and IIM were then determined.

RESULTS

A total of 204 participants enrolled in the M-app study (64% female). M-app compliance was high (median 63% of surveys). Cluster analysis revealed k = 3 (high, low, none) PP clusters and k = 2 (high, low) UU clusters. When adjusting for baseline pain severity, high PP variability, but not UU variability, was strongly associated with QOL and IIM; specifically worse mood, worse sleep and higher anxiety. UU and PP clusters were associated with each other (p < 0.0001), but a large percentage (33%) of patients with high PP variability had low UU variability.

CONCLUSIONS

PP variability is an independent predictor of worse QOL and more severe IIM in UCPPS participants after controlling for baseline pain severity and UU. These findings suggest alternative pain indices, such as pain variability and unpredictability, may be useful adjuncts to traditional measures of worst and average pain when assessing UCPPS treatment responses.

Naturalistic Bladder Filling Reveals Subtypes in Overactive Bladder Syndrome That Differentially Engages Urinary Urgency-Related Brain Circuits: Results From the Symptoms of Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction Research Network (LURN)

PURPOSE

Overactive bladder (OAB) may be attributed to dysfunction in supraspinal brain circuits. Overactive bladder participants enrolled in the LURN (Symptoms of Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction Research Network) study reported sensations of urinary urgency during a bladder-filling paradigm while undergoing brain functional MRI to map supraspinal dysfunction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

OAB participants and controls (CONs) completed 2 resting-state functional MRI scans following consumption of 350 mL water. Scans were conducted at fuller and emptier bladder states, interleaved with voiding. Urgency ratings (0-10) were assessed. Patterns of urgency during bladder filling were investigated using latent class trajectory models. Clusters of participants encompassing each pattern (ie, subtype) were derived from aggregated groups of OAB and CON independent of diagnosis.

RESULTS

Two distinct patterns of urgency trajectories were revealed: first subtype with OAB and CON who were unresponsive to bladder filling (OAB-1 and CON-1) and second highly responsive subtype predominantly containing OAB (OAB-2). OAB-2 participants scored significantly higher on urinary symptoms but not pain or psychosocial measures. Neuroimaging analyses showed change in urgency due to both bladder filling and voided volume related to multiple loci of brain network connectivity in OAB-2, and in some cases, different than OAB-1 and/or CON-1. Sensorimotor to dorsomedial/dorsolateral prefrontal connectivity mediated the relationship between stimulus (voided volume) and percept (urgency) in OAB-2.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results reveal different OAB subtypes with latent class trajectory models of urgency ratings during natural bladder filling. Functional MRI revealed differences in pathophysiology between subtypes, namely sensorimotor-prefrontal connectivity is a key locus in OAB patients with higher urinary symptoms.

Th1/17 polarization and potential treatment by an anti-interferon-γ DNA aptamer in Hunner-type interstitial cystitis

Hunner-type interstitial cystitis (HIC) is a rare, enigmatic inflammatory disease of the urinary bladder with no curative treatments. In this study, we aimed to characterize the unique cellular and immunological factors specifically involved in HIC by comparing with cystitis induced by Mycobacterium bovis bacillus Calmette-Guérin, which presents similar clinicopathological features to HIC. Here, we show that T helper 1/17 +polarized immune responses accompanied by prominent overexpression of interferon (IFN)-γ, enhanced cGAS-STING cytosolic DNA sensing pathway, and increased plasma cell infiltration are the characteristic inflammatory features in HIC bladder. Further, we developed a mouse anti-IFN-γ DNA aptamer and observed that the intravesical instillation of the aptamer significantly ameliorated bladder inflammation, pelvic pain and voiding dysfunction in a recently developed murine HIC model with little migration into the blood. Our study provides the plausible basis for the clinical translation of the anti-IFN-γ DNA aptamer in the treatment of human HIC.

Early and recent exposure to adversity, TLR-4 stimulated inflammation, and diurnal cortisol in women with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome: A MAPP research network study

Both early (ELA) and recent life adversity (RLA) have been linked with chronic pain conditions and persistent alterations of neuroendocrine and inflammatory responses. Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome (IC/BPS) is a chronic urologic disorder characterized by bladder and/or pelvic pain, and excessive urinary frequency and/or urgency. IC/BPS has been associated with high levels of ELA as well as a distinct inflammatory signature. However, associations between ELA and RLA with inflammatory mechanisms in IC/BPS that might underlie the link between adversity and symptoms have not been examined. Here we investigated ELA and RLA in women with IC/BPS as potential risk factors for inflammatory processes and hypothalamic-pituitaryadrenal (HPA) abnormalities using data from the Multidisciplinary Approach to the Study of Chronic Pelvic Pain (MAPP) Research Network. Women with IC/BPS and healthy controls (n = 154 and 32, respectively) completed surveys, collected salivary cortisol at awakening and bedtime for 3 days, and gave a blood sample which was analyzed for 7 LPS-stimulated cytokines and chemokines (IL-6, TNFα, IL-1β, MIP1α, MCP1, IL-8, and IL-10). Two cytokine/chemokine composites were identified using principal components analysis. Patients with greater exposure to RLA or cumulative ELA and RLA of at least moderate severity showed elevated levels of a composite of all cytokines, adjusting for age, body mass index, and study site. Furthermore, there was a trending relationship between ELA and the pro-inflammatory composite score. Nocturnal cortisol and cortisol slope were not associated with ELA, RLA, or inflammation. The present findings support the importance of adverse events in IC/BPS via a biological mechanism and suggest that ELA and RLA should be assessed as risk factors for inflammation as part of a clinical workup for IC/BPS.

Long-Term Symptom Trajectories in Urologic Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome: A MAPP Research Network Study

OBJECTIVE

To characterize Urologic Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (UCPPS) pain and urinary symptom trajectories with up to 9 years of follow-up and evaluate whether initial 1-year trajectories are associated with longer-term changes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data were analyzed from the Multidisciplinary Approach to the Study of Chronic Pelvic Pain (MAPP) Network's prospective observational protocols including the Epidemiology and Phenotyping Study (EPS; baseline to Year 1), EPS Extension (EXT; Years 1-5), and Symptom Patterns Study (SPS: 3-year study; Years 3-9). Adults with Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome or Chronic Prostatitis/Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome provided patient-reported assessments biweekly (EPS), every 4 months (EXT), or quarterly (SPS). Primary outcomes were composite pain (0-28) and urinary (0-25) severity scores. Multi-phase mixed effects models estimated outcomes over time, adjusted for baseline severity and stratified by EPS symptom trajectory.

RESULTS

163 participants (52% women; mean ± SD age 46.4 ± 16.1 years) completed EPS and enrolled in EXT; 67 also enrolled in SPS. Median follow-up was 4.6 years (range 1.3-9.0). After 1 year: 27.6%, 44.8% and 27.6% and 27.0%, 38.0% and 35.0% were improved, stable or worse in pain and urinary symptom severity, respectively. On average, pain and urinary symptom scores did not change further during EXT and SPS periods.

CONCLUSIONS

Women and men with UCPPS showed remarkable stability in pain and urinary symptom severity for up to 9 years, irrespective of their initial symptom trajectory, suggesting UCPPS is a chronic condition with stable symptoms over multiple years of follow-up.

Comparing clinical bladder diaries and recalled patient reports for measuring lower urinary tract symptoms in the symptoms of Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction Research Network (LURN)

PURPOSE

Bladder diaries are a key source of information about lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS); however, many patients do not complete them as instructed. Questionnaire-based patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are another option for reporting LUTS but may have recall bias. We assessed the strength of the associations between PROMs and a 3-day bladder diary.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Symptomatic adults from 6 tertiary care sites completed a 3-day paper bladder diary and 3-, 7-, and 30-day electronic PROMs. We assessed the linear associations between mapped pairs of diary variables and responses to PROM items using biserial and polyserial correlation coefficients with 95% confidence intervals.

RESULTS

Of 290 enrolled participants, 175 (60%) completed the bladder diary as instructed and at least one corresponding PROM. Linear associations were strongest between the diary and 3-day recall of daytime frequency (r = 0.75) and nighttime frequency (r = 0.69), followed by voids with urgency sensations (r = 0.62), and an item reporting any incontinence (r = 0.56). Linear associations between bladder diary and specific incontinence variables (e.g., stress, urgency) were low to negligible (ranging from r = 0.16-0.39). Linear associations were consistent across the 3-, 7-, and 30-day recall periods.

CONCLUSIONS

Missing and unusable bladder diary data were common, highlighting the patient burden associated with this method of data collection. A questionnaire-based PROM is a reasonable alternative to a diary for reporting voiding frequency and may offer an easier option for reporting some symptoms.

Significant financial differences of chemical and surgical androgen deprivation in a contemporary cohort

Background

Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) remains a cornerstone of treatment for advanced prostate cancer. Few men elect for surgical castration via bilateral orchiectomy. We sought to compare the relative difference in financial charges between chemical and surgical ADT in men.

Methods

Billing data was obtained for patients with metastatic prostate cancer receiving chemical ADT and who had bilateral orchiectomy from 2014-2019. Men had chosen intervention based on personal preference. We compared charges of ADT administration for chemical ADT and overall charges for bilateral orchiectomy. We determined the time chemical ADT patient charges surpassed those of surgical charges, as well as the net present value (NPV) of hypothetical savings for electing surgery over various ADT agents.

Results

One hundred and thirty-seven patients receiving chemical ADT and 7 patients who had undergone bilateral orchiectomy were analyzed. Median and mean surgical charges were $13,000. By 38 weeks following treatment initiation, 50% of chemical ADT patients had surpassed surgical charges, with 95% at 2 years. The NPV in savings for a median patient varied between ADT agent and was highest at $167,000 for leuprolide.

Conclusions

In less than a year, the median chemical ADT patient charges were greater than surgical castration. The NPV of electing surgery over ADT was the highest with leuprolide. Despite under-utilization, surgical castration remains a medically appropriate and cost-effective option for permanent ADT.

Clinical Phenotyping for Pain Mechanisms in Urologic Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndromes: A MAPP Research Network Study

Three categories of pain mechanisms are recognized as contributing to pain perception: nociceptive, neuropathic, and nociplastic (ie, central nervous system augmented pain processing). We use validated questionnaires to identify pain mechanisms in Urologic Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (UCCPS) patients (n = 568, female = 378, male = 190) taking part in the Symptom Patterns Study of the Multidisciplinary Approach to the study of chronic Pelvic Pain Research Network. A cutoff score of 12 on the painDETECT questionnaire (-1 to 38) was used to classify patients into the neuropathic category while the median score of 7 on the fibromyalgia survey criteria (0-31) was used to classify patients into the nociplastic category. Categories were compared on demographic, clinical, psychosocial, psychophysical and medication variables. At baseline, 43% of UCPPS patients were classified as nociceptive-only, 8% as neuropathic only, 27% as nociceptive+nociplastic, and 22% as neuropathic+nociplastic. Across outcomes nociceptive-only patients had the least severe symptoms and neuropathic+nociplastic patients the most severe. Neuropathic pain was associated with genital pain and/or sensitivity on pelvic exam, while nociplastic pain was associated with comorbid pain conditions, psychosocial difficulties, and increased pressure pain sensitivity outside the pelvis. A self-report method classifying individuals on pain mechanisms reveals clinical differences that could inform clinical trials and novel targets for treatment. PERSPECTIVE: This article presents differences in clinical characteristics based on a simple self-report method of classifying pain mechanisms for Urologic Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome patients. This method can be easily applied to other chronic pain conditions and may be useful for exploring pathophysiology in pain subtypes.

Flares and their impact among male urologic chronic pelvic pain syndrome patients: An in-depth qualitative analysis in the Multidisciplinary Approach to the Study of Chronic Pelvic Pain (MAPP) Research Network

INTRODUCTION

There has been a sparse exploration of the lived experience of men with urologic chronic pelvic pain syndrome (UCPPS), and none with the goal of Investigating the experience of "flares" as part of this chronic pain syndrome in men.

METHODS

We conducted three focus groups of male UCPPS patients at two sites of the MAPP Research Network (n = 16 total participants) to explore the full spectrum of flares and their impact on men's lives.

RESULTS

Flare experiences were common and specific symptom components varied widely. Men reported nonpelvic symptoms (e.g., diarrhea), and variability in symptom intensity (mild to severe), duration (minutes to days), and frequency of flares. Flares episodes, and the threat of flares, were disruptive to their lives, social roles, and relationships. Distinct long-term impacts were reported, such as decreased sexual activity, decreased travel, and potential loss of employment or career. The themes included social isolation and the need for a sense of control and understanding over their unpredictable symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

Given their negative impact, future research with men and UCPPS should focus on approaches to prevent flares, and should consider a multimodal approach to reducing the frequency, severity, and/or duration. Quality of life may be improved by providing men with a sense of control over their symptoms and offering them multimodal treatment options, consistent with the recommendations for further research for women with UCPPS.

Overactive bladder phenotypes: development and preliminary data

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this study is to develop overactive bladder (OAB) phenotypes that can be used to develop diagnostic and treatment pathways and offer clues to the underlying etiologies of patients with OAB.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a retrospective, multicenter study of patients with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). Evaluation included a 24-hour bladder diary (24HBD), the lower urinary tract symptoms score (LUTSS) questionnaire, uroflowmetry (Q), and post-void residual urine (PVR) measurement. Patients completed the 24HBD and LUTSS on a smartphone application or paper. Those with an OAB symptom sub-score (OABSS) ≥ 8 were included. An expert panel developed a phenotype classification system based on variables considered to be important for treatment.

RESULTS

The following variables were selected for inclusion in the phenotype modeling: 24-hour voided volume (24HV), maximum voided volume (MVV), Qmax and PVR. Subjects were divided into three phenotypes based on the 24HV: polyuria (24HV > 2.5 L), normal (24 HV 1-2.5 L), and oliguria (24HV < 1 L). Each phenotype was subdivided based on MVV, Qmax & PVR, resulting in 18 sub-types. Five hundred thirty-three patients, 348 men and 185 women, completed the LUTSS and 24HBD. OAB was present in 399 (75%) - 261 men and 138 women. The prevalence of the primary phenotypes was polyuria (25%), normal (63%), and oliguria (11%).

CONCLUSIONS

Classification of OAB variants into phenotypes based on 24HV, MVV, Qmax, and PVR provides the substrate for further research into the diagnosis, etiology, treatment outcomes and development of granular diagnostic and treatment algorithms.

Autoimmunity to urothelial antigen causes bladder inflammation, pelvic pain, and voiding dysfunction: a novel animal model for Hunner-type interstitial cystitis

Recent evidence revealed that Hunner-type interstitial cystitis (HIC) is a robust inflammatory disease potentially associated with enhanced immune responses and histologically characterized by epithelial denudation and lymphoplasmacytic infiltration with frequent clonal expansion of infiltrating B cells. To date, few animal models that reproduce the histological and clinical correlates of HIC have yet been established. In the present study, we aimed to develop a novel animal model for HIC via autoimmunity to the bladder urothelium using the transgenic mouse model (URO-OVA) that expresses the membrane form of the model antigen ovalbumin (OVA) as a self-antigen on the bladder urothelium. OVA-specific lymphocytes (splenocytes) were generated by immunization of C57BL/6 mice with OVA protein and injected intravenously into URO-OVA mice. The splenocytes from OVA-immunized C57BL/6 mice showed increased interferon (IFN)-γ production in response to OVA stimulation in vitro. URO-OVA mice adoptively transferred with OVA-primed splenocytes developed cystitis exhibiting histological chronic inflammatory changes such as remarkable mononuclear cell infiltration predominantly composed of T and B lymphocytes, increased vascularity, and mucosal hyperemia in the bladder at days 7-28 with a peak at day 21 tested. No systemic inflammation was found in cystitis-induced URO-OVA mice, nor was any inflammation found in wild-type C57BL/6 mice adoptively transferred with OVA-primed splenocytes. Along with bladder inflammation, URO-OVA mice demonstrated significantly increased pelvic nociceptive responses, voiding dysfunction, and upregulated mRNA expression levels for IFN-γ, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and substance P precursor in the bladder. This model reproduces the histological and clinical features of human HIC, providing a novel model for HIC research.

The Multidisciplinary Approach to The Study of Chronic Pelvic Pain (MAPP) Research Network*: Design and implementation of the Symptom Patterns Study (SPS)

AIMS

The Multidisciplinary Approach to the Study of Chronic Pelvic Pain (MAPP) Research Network initiated a second observational cohort study-the Symptom Patterns Study (SPS)-to further investigate the underlying pathophysiology of Urologic Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (UCPPS) and to discover factors associated with longitudinal symptom changes and responses to treatments.

METHODS

This multisite cohort study of males and females with UCPPS features a run-in period of four weekly web-based symptom assessments before a baseline visit, followed by quarterly assessments up to 36 months. Controls were also recruited and assessed at baseline and 6 months. Extensive clinical data assessing urological symptoms, nonurological pain, chronic overlapping pain syndromes, and psychosocial factors were collected. Diverse biospecimens for biomarker and microbiome studies, quantitative sensory testing (QST) data under multiple stimuli, and structural and functional neuroimaging scans were obtained under a standardized protocol.

RESULTS

Recruitment was initiated (July 2015) and completed (February 2019) at six discovery sites. A total of 620 males and females with UCPPS and 73 Controls were enrolled, including 83 UCPPS participants who re-enrolled from the first MAPP Network cohort study (2009-2012). Baseline neuroimaging scans, QST measures, and biospecimens were obtained on 578 UCPPS participants. The longitudinal follow-up of the cohort is ongoing.

CONCLUSIONS

This comprehensive characterization of a large UCPPS cohort with extended follow-up greatly expands upon earlier MAPP Network studies and provides unprecedented opportunities to increase our understanding of UCPPS pathophysiology, factors associated with symptom change, clinically relevant patient phenotypes, and novel targets for future interventions.

The Distribution of Post-Void Residual Volumes in People Seeking Care in the Symptoms of Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction Network Observational Cohort Study With Comparison to Asymptomatic Populations

OBJECTIVE

To describe the distribution of post-void residual (PVR) volumes across patients with and without lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and examine relationships between self-reported voiding symptoms, storage symptoms, and PVR.

METHODS

PVR and demographic data were obtained from the Symptoms of Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction Research Network (LURN) observational cohort study. Self-reported symptoms were collected using the American Urological Association Symptom Index and the LUTS Tool. PVR values were obtained from 2 other cohorts: living kidney donors with unknown LUTS from the Renal and Lung Living Donors Evaluation Study (RELIVE), and continent women in the Establishing the Prevalence of Incontinence (EPI) study, a population-based study of racial differences in urinary incontinence prevalence.

RESULTS

Across the 3 studies, median PVRs were similar: 26 mL in LURN (n = 880, range 0-932 mL), 20 mL in EPI (n = 166, range 0-400 mL), and 14 mL in RELIVE (n = 191, range 0-352 mL). In LURN, males had 3.6 times higher odds of having PVR > 200 mL (95% CI = 1.72-7.48). In RELIVE, median PVR was significantly higher for males (20 mL vs 0 mL, P= .004). Among women, only the intermittency severity rating was associated with a probability of an elevated PVR. Among men, incomplete emptying and burning severity rating were associated with a higher odds of elevated PVR, but urgency severity ratings were associated with lower odds of elevated PVR.

CONCLUSION

Care-seeking patients have PVRs similar to those in people with unknown history of LUTS (RELIVE) and without self-reported LUTS (EPI). Although PVR was correlated with voiding symptoms, the mean differences only explain ∼2% of the variance.

Cystitis-induced bladder pain is Toll-like receptor 4 dependent in a transgenic autoimmune cystitis murine model: a MAPP Research Network animal study

Altered Toll-like receptor (TLR)4 activation has been identified in several chronic pain conditions but has not been well studied in interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS). Our previously published human studies indicated that patients with IC/BPS present altered systemic TLR4-mediated inflammatory responses, which were significantly correlated with reported pain severity. In the present study, we sought to determine whether altered TLR4 activation plays a role in pelvic/bladder pain seen in patients with IC/BPS using our validated IC/BPS-like transgenic autoimmune cystitis model (URO-OVA). URO-OVA mice developed responses consistent with pelvic and bladder pain after cystitis induction, which was associated with increased splenocyte production of TLR4-mediated proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. Increased spinal expression of mRNAs for proinflammatory cytokines IL-6 and TNF-α, glial activation markers CD11b and glial fibrillary acidic protein, and endogenous TLR4 ligand high mobility group box 1 was also observed after cystitis induction. Compared with URO-OVA mice, TLR4-deficient URO-OVA mice developed significantly reduced nociceptive responses, although similar bladder inflammation and voiding dysfunction, after cystitis induction. Intravenous administration of TAK-242 (a TLR4-selective antagonist) significantly attenuated nociceptive responses in cystitis-induced URO-OVA mice, which was associated with reduced splenocyte production of TLR4-mediated IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α as well as reduced spinal expression of mRNAs for IL-6, TNF-α, CD11b, glial fibrillary acidic protein, and high mobility group box 1. Our results indicate that altered TLR4 activation plays a critical role in bladder nociception independent of inflammation and voiding dysfunction in the URO-OVA model, providing a potential mechanistic insight and therapeutic target for IC/BPS pain.

Bowel function, sexual function, and symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse in women with and without urinary incontinence

AIMS

Bowel symptoms, pelvic organ prolapse, and sexual dysfunction are common, but their frequency among women with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) has not been well described. Our aims were to describe pelvic floor symptoms among women with and without urinary incontinence (UI) and among subtypes of UI.

METHODS

Women with LUTS seeking care at six U.S. tertiary care centers enrolled in prospective cohort study were studied. At baseline, participants completed the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory (PFDI-20), Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire (PISQ-IR), and PROMIS GI Diarrhea, Constipation, and Fecal Incontinence Scales.

RESULTS

Mean age among the 510 women was 56.4 ± 14.4 years. Women who reported UI (n = 420) had more diarrhea and constipation symptoms (mean scores 49.5 vs 46.2 [P = 0.01] and 51.9 vs 48.4 [P < 0.01], respectively) at baseline. Among sexually active women, mean PISQ-IR subscale scores were lower among those with UI (condition specific: 89.8 vs 96.7, P < 0.01; condition impact: 79.8 vs 92.5, P < 0.01). Women with mixed urinary incontinence (MUI) (n = 240) reported more prolapse symptoms, fecal incontinence, and worse sexual function compared to those with stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and urgency urinary incontinence (UUI).

CONCLUSIONS

Women presenting with LUTS with UI reported significantly worse constipation, diarrhea, fecal incontinence, and sexual function compared to women without UI. In women with UI, sexual function and pelvic organ prolapse (POP) symptoms were worse in those with MUI compared to SUI and UUI.

Brain signature and functional impact of centralized pain: a multidisciplinary approach to the study of chronic pelvic pain (MAPP) network study

Chronic pain is often measured with a severity score that overlooks its spatial distribution across the body. This widespread pain is believed to be a marker of centralization, a central nervous system process that decouples pain perception from nociceptive input. Here, we investigated whether centralization is manifested at the level of the brain using data from 1079 participants in the Multidisciplinary Approach to the Study of Chronic Pelvic Pain Research Network (MAPP) study. Participants with a clinical diagnosis of urological chronic pelvic pain syndrome (UCPPS) were compared to pain-free controls and patients with fibromyalgia, the prototypical centralized pain disorder. Participants completed questionnaires capturing pain severity, function, and a body map of pain. A subset (UCPPS N = 110; fibromyalgia N = 23; healthy control N = 49) underwent functional and structural magnetic resonance imaging. Patients with UCPPS reported pain ranging from localized (pelvic) to widespread (throughout the body). Patients with widespread UCPPS displayed increased brain gray matter volume and functional connectivity involving sensorimotor and insular cortices (P < 0.05 corrected). These changes translated across disease diagnoses as identical outcomes were present in patients with fibromyalgia but not pain-free controls. Widespread pain was also associated with reduced physical and mental function independent of pain severity. Brain pathology in patients with centralized pain is related to pain distribution throughout the body. These patients may benefit from interventions targeting the central nervous system.

Reasons for Seeking Clinical Care for Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms: A Mixed Methods Study

PURPOSE

The primary objective of this study was to evaluate reasons for seeking care among men and women with lower urinary tract symptoms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Participants were recruited from urology and urogynecology clinics, and the community. The sample was enriched with persons expected to have abnormal or diminished bladder sensations (eg participants with lower back surgery and participants 65 years old or older). Interviews were performed in person beginning with an open-ended assessment of urinary symptoms and associated bother followed by more directed questions, including reasons for seeking or not seeking treatment. We also examined the relationship between symptom frequency and bother using the LUTS (Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms) Tool.

RESULTS

A total of 88 participants, including 38 men and 50 women, with a mean ± SD age of 52.2 ± 14.3 years provided information about urinary symptoms, including a range of quality of life consequences and coping behaviors. They sought treatment mostly because of new, continuing or bothersome symptoms. Factors associated with not seeking treatment included low symptom severity and concerns about the costs vs the benefits of treatment (eg side effects of medication). Symptom frequency and bother were associated with each other across symptoms assessed by the LUTS Tool.

CONCLUSIONS

In this large qualitative study we obtained useful insights into the impact of lower urinary tract symptoms from the perspective of the person with the symptoms. Removing barriers and misconceptions about the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms may increase the number of people who seek clinical care and improve the clinical course of men and women who experience lower urinary tract symptoms.

Evidence of the Impact of Diet, Fluid Intake, Caffeine, Alcohol and Tobacco on Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms: A Systematic Review

PURPOSE

Diet, fluid intake and caffeine, alcohol and tobacco use may have effects on lower urinary tract symptoms. Constructive changes in these modifiable nonurological factors are suggested to improve lower urinary tract symptoms. To better understand the relationship between nonurological factors and lower urinary tract symptoms, we performed a systematic literature review to examine, grade and summarize reported associations between lower urinary tract symptoms and diet, fluid intake and caffeine, tobacco and alcohol use.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed PubMed® searches for eligible articles providing evidence on associations between 1 or more nonurological factors and lower urinary tract symptoms. A modified Oxford scale was used to grade the evidence.

RESULTS

We reviewed 111 articles addressing diet (28 studies), fluid intake (21) and caffeine (21), alcohol (26) and tobacco use (44). The evidence grade was generally low (6% level 1, 24% level 2, 11% level 3 and 59% level 4). Fluid intake and caffeine use were associated with urinary frequency and urgency in men and women. Modest alcohol use was associated with decreased likelihood of benign prostatic hyperplasia diagnosis and reduced lower urinary tract symptoms in men. Associations between lower urinary tract symptoms and ingestion of certain foods and tobacco were inconsistent.

CONCLUSIONS

Evidence of associations between lower urinary tract symptoms and diet, fluid intake and caffeine, alcohol and tobacco use is sparse and mostly observational. However, there is evidence of associations between increased fluid and caffeine intake and urinary frequency/urgency, and between modest alcohol intake and decreased benign prostatic hyperplasia diagnosis and lower urinary tract symptoms. Given the importance of these nonurological factors in daily life, and their perceived impact on lower urinary tract symptoms, higher quality evidence is needed.

Understanding and Managing Erectile Dysfunction in Patients Treated for Cancer

Cancer can cause sexual adverse effects by direct and indirect pathways. It can involve sexual organs, indirectly affect body image, or cause fatigue or depression with subsequent effects on libido. Erectile dysfunction (ED), the inability to obtain or maintain an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse, can also result from adverse effects of cancer treatment, such as fatigue, pain, or anxiety about therapy. In addition, depressed feelings about having cancer can affect sexuality, causing a range of signs and symptoms that can lead to ED. Chemotherapy, hormone therapy, surgery, and radiation can all cause sexual adverse effects. Additional factors that play a role include patient age and degree of ED before starting cancer treatment. In this article, we discuss how chemotherapy, hormone therapy, surgery, and radiation affect erectile function as well as possible treatment options for ED.

Inflammation and Symptom Change in Interstitial Cystitis or Bladder Pain Syndrome: A Multidisciplinary Approach to the Study of Chronic Pelvic Pain Research Network Study

OBJECTIVE

To explore inflammatory factors that influence symptom changes in interstitial cystitis or bladder pain syndrome (IC or BPS). This longitudinal, prospective study examined the association of inflammation elicited by Toll-like receptor (TLR) stimulation in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and diurnal cortisol rhythms with changes in painful and urinary symptoms of IC or BPS and symptom flares over a 48-week period.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Participants were 24 women meeting criteria for IC or BPS who supplied blood for isolation of PBMCs and 3 days of salivary cortisol samples prior to a baseline visit. Participants completed the Genitourinary Pain Index (pain and urinary subscales) and reported symptom flares every 2 weeks for 48 weeks. Mixed effects longitudinal and regression models were used to determine if inflammatory variables were associated with the changes in IC or BPS symptoms (time × variable interactions), and the probability of a symptom flare.

RESULTS

Elevated TLR-4 inflammation (P = .031) and elevated TLR-2 inflammation (P = .045) from PBMCs, and flattened diurnal cortisol slope (P = .012) were each associated with less improvement in genitourinary pain over time. Additionally, elevated TLR-4 inflammation was associated with less improvement in urinary symptoms (P = .018), whereas TLR-2 inflammation and cortisol slopes were not (both P > .16). In contrast, no inflammatory measure was associated with an increased likelihood of reporting a symptom flare (all P > .25).

CONCLUSION

TLR-mediated inflammation and diurnal cortisol slope may be useful as markers of symptom changes in IC or BPS.

Urological chronic pelvic pain syndrome flares and their impact: qualitative analysis in the MAPP network

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Although in-depth qualitative information is critical to understanding patients' symptom experiences and to developing patient-centered outcome measures, only one previous qualitative study has assessed urological chronic pelvic pain syndrome (UCPPS) symptom exacerbations ("flares").

METHODS

We conducted eight focus groups of female UCPPS (interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome) patients at four sites from the MAPP Research Network (n = 57, mean = 7/group) to explore the full spectrum of flares and their impact on patients' lives.

RESULTS

Flare experiences were common and varied widely in terms of UCPPS symptoms involved, concurrent nonpelvic symptoms (e.g., diarrhea), symptom intensity (mild to severe), duration (minutes to years), and frequency (daily to < once/year), although the most commonly described flares were painful flares lasting days. These latter flares were also most disruptive to participants' lives, causing some to cancel social events, miss work or school, and in the worst cases, go to the emergency room or on disability leave. Participants also reported a longer-term impact of flares, including negative effects on their sexual functioning and marital, family, and social relationships; and the loss of employment or limited career or educational advancement. Emerging themes included the need for a sense of control over unpredictable symptoms and reduced social engagement.

CONCLUSIONS

Given their negative impact, future research should focus on approaches to prevent flares, and to reduce their frequency, severity, and/or duration. Patients' quality of life may also be improved by providing them with a sense of control over their symptoms through ready access to flare medications/therapy, and by engaging them socially.

The MAPP research network: design, patient characterization and operations

Background

The “Multidisciplinary Approach to the Study of Chronic Pelvic Pain” (MAPP) Research Network was established by the NIDDK to better understand the pathophysiology of urologic chronic pelvic pain syndromes (UCPPS), to inform future clinical trials and improve clinical care. The evolution, organization, and scientific scope of the MAPP Research Network, and the unique approach of the network’s central study and common data elements are described.

Methods

The primary scientific protocol for the Trans-MAPP Epidemiology/Phenotyping (EP) Study comprises a multi-site, longitudinal observational study, including bi-weekly internet-based symptom assessments, following a comprehensive in-clinic deep-phenotyping array of urological symptoms, non-urological symptoms and psychosocial factors to evaluate men and women with UCPPS. Healthy controls, matched on sex and age, as well as “positive” controls meeting the non-urologic associated syndromes (NUAS) criteria for one or more of the target conditions of Fibromyalgia (FM), Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) or Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), were also evaluated. Additional, complementary studies addressing diverse hypotheses are integrated into the Trans-MAPP EP Study to provide a systemic characterization of study participants, including biomarker discovery studies of infectious agents, quantitative sensory testing, and structural and resting state neuroimaging and functional neurobiology studies. A highly novel effort to develop and assess clinically relevant animal models of UCPPS was also undertaken to allow improved translation between clinical and mechanistic studies. Recruitment into the central study occurred at six Discovery Sites in the United States, resulting in a total of 1,039 enrolled participants, exceeding the original targets. The biospecimen collection rate at baseline visits reached nearly 100%, and 279 participants underwent common neuroimaging through a standardized protocol. An extended follow-up study for 161 of the UCPPS participants is ongoing.

Discussion

The MAPP Research Network represents a novel, comprehensive approach to the study of UCPPS, as well as other concomitant NUAS. Findings are expected to provide significant advances in understanding UCPPS pathophysiology that will ultimately inform future clinical trials and lead to improvements in patient care. Furthermore, the structure and methodologies developed by the MAPP Network provide the foundation upon which future studies of other urologic or non-urologic disorders can be based.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01098279 “Chronic Pelvic Pain Study of Individuals with Diagnoses or Symptoms of Interstitial Cystitis and/or Chronic Prostatitis (MAPP-EP)”. http://clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT01098279

The MAPP research network: a novel study of urologic chronic pelvic pain syndromes

Urologic chronic pelvic pain syndrome (UCPPS) may be defined to include interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) and chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS). The hallmark symptom of UCPPS is chronic pain in the pelvis, urogenital floor, or external genitalia often accompanied by lower urinary tract symptoms. Despite numerous past basic and clinical research studies there is no broadly identifiable organ-specific pathology or understanding of etiology or risk factors for UCPPS, and diagnosis relies primarily on patient reported symptoms. In addition, there are no generally effective therapies. Recent findings have, however, revealed associations between UCPPS and “centralized” chronic pain disorders, suggesting UCPPS may represent a local manifestation of more widespread pathology in some patients. Here, we describe a new and novel effort initiated by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) of the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) to address the many long standing questions regarding UCPPS, the Multidisciplinary Approach to the Study of Chronic Pelvic Pain (MAPP) Research Network. The MAPP Network approaches UCPPS in a systemic manner, in which the interplay between the genitourinary system and other physiological systems is emphasized. The network’s study design expands beyond previous research, which has primarily focused on urologic organs and tissues, to utilize integrated approaches to define patient phenotypes, identify clinically-relevant subgroups, and better understand treated natural history and pathophysiology. Thus, the MAPP Network provides an unprecedented, multi-layered characterization of UCPPS. Knowledge gained is expected to provide important insights into underlying pathophysiology, a foundation for better segmenting patients for future clinical trials, and ultimately translation into improved clinical management. In addition, the MAPP Network’s integrated multi-disciplinary research approach may serve as a model for studies of urologic and non-urologic disorders that have proven refractory to past basic and clinical study.

Initial treatment of men with newly diagnosed lower urinary tract dysfunction in the Veterans Health Administration

OBJECTIVE

To examine initial treatments given to men with newly diagnosed lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) within a large integrated health care system in the United States.

METHODS

We used data from 2003 to 2009 from the Veteran's Health Administration to identify newly diagnosed cases of LUTD using established ICD-9CM codes. Our primary outcome was initial LUTD treatment (3 months), categorized as watchful waiting (WW), medical therapy (MT), or surgical therapy (ST); our secondary outcome was pharmacotherapy class received. We used logistic regression models to examine patient, provider, and health system factors associated with receiving MT or ST when compared with WW.

RESULTS

There were 393,901 incident cases of LUTD, of which 58.0% initially received WW, 41.8% MT, and 0.2% ST. Of the MT men, 79.8% received an alpha-blocker, 7.7% a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor, 3.3% an anticholinergic, and 7.3% combined therapy (alpha-blocker and 5-alpha reductase inhibitor). In our regression models, we found that age (higher), race (white/black), income (low), region (northeast/south), comorbidities (greater), prostate-specific antigen (lower), and provider (nonurologist) were associated with an increased odds of receiving MT. We found that age (higher), race (white), income (low), region (northeast/south), initial provider (urologist), and prostate-specific antigen (higher) increased the odds of receiving ST.

CONCLUSION

Most men with newly diagnosed LUTD in the Veteran's Health Administration receive WW, and initial surgical treatment is rare. A large number of men receiving MT were treated with monotherapy, despite evidence that combination therapy is potentially more effective in the long-term, suggesting opportunities for improvement in initial LUTD management within this population.

Randomized multicenter clinical trial of myofascial physical therapy in women with interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome and pelvic floor tenderness

PURPOSE

We determined the efficacy and safety of pelvic floor myofascial physical therapy compared to global therapeutic massage in women with newly symptomatic interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A randomized controlled trial of 10 scheduled treatments of myofascial physical therapy vs global therapeutic massage was performed at 11 clinical centers in North America. We recruited women with interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome with demonstrable pelvic floor tenderness on physical examination and a limitation of no more than 3 years' symptom duration. The primary outcome was the proportion of responders defined as moderately improved or markedly improved in overall symptoms compared to baseline on a 7-point global response assessment scale. Secondary outcomes included ratings for pain, urgency and frequency, the O'Leary-Sant IC Symptom and Problem Index, and reports of adverse events. We compared response rates between treatment arms using the exact conditional version of the Mantel-Haenszel test to control for clustering by clinical center. For secondary efficacy outcomes cross-sectional descriptive statistics and changes from baseline were calculated.

RESULTS

A total of 81 women randomized to the 2 treatment groups had similar symptoms at baseline. The global response assessment response rate was 26% in the global therapeutic massage group and 59% in the myofascial physical therapy group (p=0.0012). Pain, urgency and frequency ratings, and O'Leary-Sant IC Symptom and Problem Index decreased in both groups during followup, and were not significantly different between the groups. Pain was the most common adverse event, occurring at similar rates in both groups. No serious adverse events were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

A significantly higher proportion of women with interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome responded to treatment with myofascial physical therapy than to global therapeutic massage. Myofascial physical therapy may be a beneficial therapy in women with this syndrome.

Effect of increasing doses of saw palmetto extract on lower urinary tract symptoms: a randomized trial

CONTEXT

Saw palmetto fruit extracts are widely used for treating lower urinary tract symptoms attributed to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH); however, recent clinical trials have questioned their efficacy, at least at standard doses (320 mg/d).

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effect of saw palmetto extract (Serenoa repens, from saw palmetto berries) at up to 3 times the standard dose on lower urinary tract symptoms attributed to BPH.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

A double-blind, multicenter, placebo-controlled randomized trial at 11 North American clinical sites conducted between June 5, 2008, and October 10, 2010, of 369 men aged 45 years or older, with a peak urinary flow rate of at least 4 mL/s, an American Urological Association Symptom Index (AUASI) score of between 8 and 24 at 2 screening visits, and no exclusions.

INTERVENTIONS

One, 2, and then 3 doses (320 mg/d) of saw palmetto extract or placebo, with dose increases at 24 and 48 weeks.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Difference in AUASI score between baseline and 72 weeks. Secondary outcomes included measures of urinary bother, nocturia, peak uroflow, postvoid residual volume, prostate-specific antigen level, participants' global assessments, and indices of sexual function, continence, sleep quality, and prostatitis symptoms.

RESULTS

Between baseline and 72 weeks, mean AUASI scores decreased from 14.42 to 12.22 points (-2.20 points; 95% CI, -3.04 to -1.36) [corrected]with saw palmetto extract and from 14.69 to 11.70 points (-2.99 points; 95% CI, -3.81 to -2.17) with placebo. The group mean difference in AUASI score change from baseline to 72 weeks between the saw palmetto extract and placebo groups was 0.79 points favoring placebo (upper bound of the 1-sided 95% CI most favorable to saw palmetto extract was 1.77 points, 1-sided P = .91). Saw palmetto extract was no more effective than placebo for any secondary outcome. No clearly attributable adverse effects were identified.

CONCLUSION

Increasing doses of a saw palmetto fruit extract did not reduce lower urinary tract symptoms more than placebo.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT00603304.

Sacral neuromodulation for refractory urge incontinence is less effective following spinal surgery

Patients with neurogenic disorders and voiding dysfunction have been reported to respond poorly to sacral neuromodulation. We report on our experience in treating voiding symptoms with sacral neuromodulation after spinal surgery. The medical charts of patients evaluated for sacral neuromodulation from 2000–2008 were retrospectively reviewed. Indications, need for explantation, and clinical success (>50% symptom improvement) were recorded. The cohort of patients who had undergone prior spinal surgery was compared to patients with no history of spinal surgery or neurological disease. Thirty-two patients with a history of spinal surgery and 136 with no history of neurologic disease underwent sacral neuromodulation testing. Twenty men and women (62.5%) from the spinal surgery group ultimately underwent permanent implantation. Seventeen of the 32 patients were diagnosed with urge incontinence, of whom 52.9% reported a successful outcome at a mean of 2.3 years of follow-up, compared to an 80.3% success rate in patients with no history of spinal surgery (p = 0.018). Sixteen of 32 carried a diagnosis of urgency/frequency with 62.5% success at last follow-up, compared 73.9% (p = 0.35) of those without a history of spinal surgery or neurological disease. Thirteen of 32 patients diagnosed with urinary retention experienced a 61.5% long-term success rate, compared with 63.6% for those without spinal surgery and urinary retention. Six of 20 (30.0%) in the spinal surgery group were explanted at a mean time of 2.9 years, compared with 27 of 102 (26.5%) of the non-neurologic patients. Clinical success can be achieved using sacral neuromodulation in patients with voiding dysfunction and a history of spinal surgery; however, those with urge incontinence are less likely to report significant improvement.

Early termination of a trial of mycophenolate mofetil for treatment of interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome: lessons learned

PURPOSE

We evaluated the efficacy and tolerability of mycophenolate mofetil in patients with treatment refractory interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 210 patients with interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome were to be randomized into a multicenter, placebo controlled trial using a 2:1 randomization. Participants in whom at least 3 interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome specific treatments had failed and who had at least moderately severe symptoms were enrolled in a 12-week treatment study. The primary study end point was the global response assessment. Secondary end points were general and disease specific symptom questionnaires, and voiding diaries.

RESULTS

Only 58 subjects were randomized before a black box warning regarding mycophenolate mofetil safety was issued by the manufacturer in October 2007. The trial was halted, and interim analysis was performed and presented to an independent data and safety monitoring board. Six of the 39 subjects (15%) randomized at study cessation were considered responders for mycophenolate mofetil compared to 3 of 19 controls (16%, p=0.67). Secondary outcome measures reflected more improvement in controls.

CONCLUSIONS

In a randomized, placebo controlled trial that was prematurely halted mycophenolate mofetil showed efficacy similar to that of placebo to treat symptoms of refractory interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome. The results of this limited study cannot be used to confirm or refute the hypothesis that immunosuppressive therapy may be beneficial to at least a subgroup of patients with interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome. Despite study termination lessons can be gleaned to inform future investigations.

Sacral neuromodulation in diabetic patients: success and complications in the treatment of voiding dysfunction

AIMS

We compared success rates, subsequent complications, and possible indications for success of sacral neuromodulation (SNM) for urinary voiding dysfunction in diabetic and non-diabetic patients.

METHODS

Thirty-two diabetic patients (mean age 61.8 years, range 27-83) with urge incontinence, urgency-frequency syndrome, and/or urinary retention refractory to non-surgical treatment were retrospectively evaluated along with 211 non-diabetic patients (mean age 54.1 years, range 20-86) with similar symptoms. All patients who experienced >or=50% reduction in urinary symptoms following a 7- to 21-day test period went on to permanent SNM device implantation.

RESULTS

No significant difference was found with respect to successful conversion rates from the test period to permanent implantation between diabetic and non-diabetic patients. Long-term success rates at a mean followup of 29.3 months following permanent device implantation for diabetic patients were 69.2% of those with urge incontinence, 85.7% of those with urgency-frequency, and 66.7% of those with urinary retention. The non-diabetic cohort had success rates of 67.0% for urge incontinence, 67.8% for urgency/frequency, and 58.2% for urinary retention (P = 0.823, 0.157, and 0.631, respectively). No patient experienced intraoperative complications. Nine of 24 (37.5%) devices were explanted postoperatively in diabetic patients compared with 36 of 141 (25.5%) in non-diabetic patients (P = 0.224). The number of explants due to infection was higher in diabetic patients (16.7%) versus non-diabetic patients (4.3%; P = 0.018).

CONCLUSIONS

No difference in long-term success rates was seen in diabetic patients when compared with similar, non-diabetic patients. Diabetic patients did, however, have a higher incidence of device explantation due to infection.

Effect of amitriptyline on symptoms in treatment naïve patients with interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome

PURPOSE

Amitriptyline is frequently used to treat patients with interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome. The evidence to support this practice is derived mainly from a small, single site clinical trial and case reports.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled clinical trial of amitriptyline in subjects with interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome who were naïve to therapy. Study participants in both treatment arms received a standardized education and behavioral modification program. The drug dose was increased during a 6-week period from 10 up to 75 mg once daily. The primary outcome was a patient reported global response assessment of symptom improvement evaluated after 12 weeks of treatment.

RESULTS

A total of 271 subjects were randomized and 231 (85%) provided a global response assessment at 12 weeks of followup. Study participants were primarily women (83%) and white (74%), with a median age of 38 years. In an intent to treat analysis (271) the rate of response of subjects reporting moderate or marked improvement from baseline in the amitriptyline and placebo groups was 55% and 45%, respectively (p = 0.12). Of the subgroup of subjects (207) who achieved a drug dose of at least 50 mg, a significantly higher response rate was observed in the amitriptyline group (66%) compared to placebo (47%) (p = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

When all randomized subjects were considered, amitriptyline plus an education and behavioral modification program did not significantly improve symptoms in treatment naïve patients with interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome. However, amitriptyline may be beneficial in persons who can achieve a daily dose of 50 mg or greater, although this subgroup comparison was not specified in advance.

Traumatic urethral injury without pelvic fracture in an adult female

A 23-year-old female was involved in a motor vehicle collision with multiple injuries, including a right acetabular fracture, but no pelvic fracture. Urology consultation was obtained due to difficulty placing a urethral catheter. Examination revealed a longitudinal urethral tear with vaginal laceration extending 2 cm from the urethral meatus proximally toward the bladder neck. The longitudinal urethral tear was repaired primarily. Traumatic female urethral injury in the absence of a pelvic fracture is an exceedingly rare occurrence.

Buccal mucosal graft urethroplasty in the treatment of urethral strictures: experience using the two-surgeon technique

At our institution, the majority of buccal mucosal graft urethroplasties are performed using a two-team approach with an otolaryngologic surgeon. We report our two-surgeon experience with buccal mucosal grafting for reconstruction of all anterior urethral strictures. Twenty-four men underwent autologous buccal mucosal graft urethroplasty between October 2001 and September 2008 for recurrent urethral stricture disease. Twenty-two underwent a single-stage repair and two underwent a two-stage repair. Medical charts were retrospectively reviewed for demographics, comorbidities, etiology, location and length of stricture, and prior interventions in order to identify predictors of buccal urethroplasty success, defined as no evidence of stricture recurrence. All patients underwent retrograde urethrogram and cystoscopy. Operative and anesthesia times were evaluated. We determined an overall success rate of 83.3% (20 of 24 cases). Mean anesthesia time for single-stage urethroplasty was 155 min and mean operative time was 123 min. One of the two two-stage urethroplasties experienced stricture recurrence (50%). The single-stage buccal graft success rate was 86.4% (19 of 22 cases). Two of the four who developed recurrent stricture disease that required intervention had undergone a previous mesh urethroplasty. Complications developed in four of 24 patients (16.6%), including superficial wound infection (one), superficial wound dehiscence (two), and abscess/fistula formation requiring reoperation (one). The buccal mucosa is an ideal tissue for both single- and two-stage substitution urethroplasty for patients with recurrent stricture disease. Our two-surgeon technique minimizes anesthesia and operative times, and contributes to the overall high success rate and relatively low complication rate.

Urodynamic evaluation of the bladder and pelvic floor

Pelvic floor disorders including lower urinary tract dysfunction are common, and may be evaluated by urodynamic tests, such as cystometry, uroflowmetry, pressure flow studies, electromyography, and video-urodynamics. These urodynamic tests provide objective information regarding the normal and abnormal function of the urinary tract and pelvic floor, and provide a better understanding of the pathophysiologic processes that cause lower urinary tract symptoms. This article describes typical urodynamic studies and their roles in the evaluation of common pelvic floor disorders, including stress urinary incontinence, overactive bladder, and pelvic organ prolapse.

Physiologic reactivity to a laboratory stress task among men with benign prostatic hyperplasia

OBJECTIVES

The sympathetic nervous system and hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis are involved in the pathophysiology of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The sympathetic nervous system and hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis are also highly reactive to psychological stressors, yet associations between prostate function and reactivity to a psychological stressor have not been examined using standardized psychological stress paradigms. The objective of this study was to examine the associations between psychological stress reactivity and BPH disease parameters.

METHODS

A total of 83 men diagnosed with BPH completed a standardized laboratory stress task, yielding measures of blood pressure, testosterone, and cortisol reactivity. Links were examined between stress reactivity (as indicated by changes in blood pressure, testosterone, and cortisol during the stress task) and measures of BPH disease, including prostate volume, postvoid residual bladder volume, urine flow rate, self-reported lower urinary tract symptoms, and impact and bother scores.

RESULTS

In equations controlling for BPH medications, body mass index, and age, greater diastolic blood pressure reactivity was associated with a greater transition zone volume (P <0.001), greater total prostate gland volume (P <0.05), greater postvoid residual bladder volume (P <0.05), more severe lower urinary tract symptoms (P <0.001), and greater impact scores (P <0.05). Greater cortisol reactivity was associated with greater bother (P <0.05) and impact (P <0.001) scores.

CONCLUSIONS

Physiologic reactivity to a standardized laboratory stressor is associated with objective and subjective BPH disease parameters. These findings contribute to growing data suggesting that stress conditions could be associated with the development or aggravation of prostatic disease.

Objective and Quality-of-Life Outcomes with Bone-Anchored Male Bulbourethral Sling

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the success rates and quality-of-life outcomes with the male bulbourethral sling using the validated Male Urogenital Distress Inventory (MUDI) and Male Urinary Symptom Impact Questionnaire (MUSIQ). These validated incontinence questionnaires for men have not been reported in the sling population.

METHODS

A total of 31 consecutive patients underwent placement of a male bulbourethral bone-anchoring sling from October 2002 through May 2005. The preoperative information included history and physical examination, pad history, urodynamic findings, and MUDI and MUSIQ results. Postoperatively, the patients were evaluated clinically and completed a MUDI and MUSIQ every 6 months.

RESULTS

Of the 31 patients, 24 completed the questionnaires and follow-up protocol. Of the other 7 patients, 4 underwent sling removal and 3 were lost to follow-up. The average follow-up time was 15 months (range 9 to 21). After surgery, the pad use decreased from a median of 3.7 pads/day (range 1 to 12) to 1.3 pads/day (range 0 to 6). Of the 24 analyzed patients, 18 (75%) were dry or using 1 pad or less per day, and 9 (38%) no longer needed pads. Subjectively, 75% of the patients were satisfied. The mean MUDI and MUSIQ scores decreased from 56.8 and 29.9 preoperatively to 44.8 (P <0.0001) and 14.6 (P = 0.002) after sling placement, respectively. When all 31 patients were included, our clinical success rate of 1 pad/day or less decreased to 58%.

CONCLUSIONS

Of the 24 patients with follow-up data, 75% were satisfied and were clinically cured. A significant improvement was seen after surgery in the MUDI and MUSIQ scores, severity of incontinence, and average pad use. The MUDI and MUSIQ scores paralleled patient satisfaction and clinical success after male bulbourethral sling placement.

Duloxetine compared with placebo for treating women with symptoms of overactive bladder

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate duloxetine (a serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor) in women with symptoms of overactive bladder (OAB), as it has been shown to increase the bladder capacity in an animal model.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In all, 306 women (aged 21-84 years) were recruited and randomly assigned to placebo (153) or duloxetine (80-mg/day for 4 weeks increased to 120-mg/day for 8 weeks; 153). Symptoms of OAB were defined as bothersome urinary urgency and/or urge urinary incontinence (UI) for > or =3 months. Participants were also required to have a mean daytime voiding interval (VI) of < or=2 h and urodynamic observations of either detrusor overactivity (DOA) or urgency which limited bladder capacity to <400 mL, both with no stress UI (SUI). The primary efficacy analysis compared the treatment effects on mean change from baseline to endpoint in the mean number of voiding episodes (VE)/24 h. The secondary efficacy analyses compared the treatment effects on the number of UI episodes (IE)/24 h, in the Incontinence Quality of Life questionnaire (I-QOL) score, and on the mean daytime VI. Safety was assessed with vital signs, adverse event reporting, routine laboratory testing, electrocardiogram, and the measurement of postvoid residual urine volumes (PVR).

RESULTS

Patients randomized to duloxetine had significant improvements over those randomized to placebo for decreases in VE and IE, for increases in the daytime VI, and for improvements in I-QOL scores at both doses of duloxetine. Urodynamic studies showed no significant increases in maximum cystometric capacity or in the volume threshold for DOA. The most common treatment-emergent adverse events with duloxetine (nausea, 31%; dry mouth, 16%; dizziness, 14%; constipation, 14%; insomnia, 13%; and fatigue, 11%) were the same as those reported by women with SUI and were significantly more common with duloxetine than placebo. Laboratory assessments, vital signs and electrocardiograms were stable relative to baseline, with no relevant differences detected between groups. There was a significant difference in the change in PVR with duloxetine (<5 mL mean increase) but no patient reported hesitancy or retention.

CONCLUSION

In this trial, duloxetine was better than placebo for treating women with 'wet' and 'dry' symptoms of OAB associated with DOA or a bladder capacity of <400 mL.

Treatment of Postoperative Ileus After Bowel Surgery with Low-Dose Intravenous Erythromycin

OBJECTIVES

Treatment of postoperative ileus remains unsatisfactory. Erythromycin (EM), a macrolide antibiotic, has prokinetic effects on the gut. We investigated whether intravenous erythromycin decreases the time to the return of normal bowel function after bowel surgery in patients with bladder cancer and interstitial cystitis who have undergone cystectomy and urinary diversion.

METHODS

We conducted a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study of 22 volunteers. On the first postoperative day, patients began receiving intravenous erythromycin (125 mg) or placebo every 8 hours (maximum of 21 doses). The patients' ability to tolerate a general diet and return of bowel function was monitored.

RESULTS

A general diet was tolerated at a median of 9 days postoperatively for the EM arm and 8 for the placebo arm (P = 0.60). The first bowel sounds were detected at an average of 2 postoperative days for the EM arm and 3 for the placebo arm (P = 0.88). First flatus was present an average of 5 days postoperatively for both study arms (P = 0.35). The first bowel movement was present an average of 6 days postoperatively for the EM arm and 5 for the placebo arm (P = 0.98).

CONCLUSIONS

No significant difference was found between EM and placebo with regard to the onset of bowel sounds, passage of flatus, passage of the first bowel movement, and the time to tolerate a general diet. These data indicate that erythromycin is not useful in improving postoperative bowel function.

Solifenacin

Pharacologic therapy has been the mainstay of treatment for patients who have overactive bladder. In recent years, a number of new antimuscarinic agents have been introduced. Solifenacin succinate is a new once-daily antimuscarinic agent that is an effective and well-tolerated treatment option for patients who have overactive bladder. Solifenacin increases functional bladder capacity and decreases urgency, frequency, and incontinence. In pharmacokinetic studies, solifenacin demonstrated selectivity for the bladder over the salivary gland; thus, it is likely that the bladder selectivity of this agent is responsible for the low incidence of dry mouth and constipation reported in the clinical trials.

Incontinence surgery in the older woman

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To review recently published studies on stress urinary incontinence surgery outcomes in older women.

RECENT FINDINGS

Five prospective and two retrospective studies were identified that reported tension-free vaginal tape (n = 6), colposuspension (n = 1) and cadaveric fascia transvaginal sling (n = 1) procedure results. In each study, 21-175 older women were included, with mean ages ranging from 71 to 83 years; most studies included younger comparison groups. Mean follow-ups ranged from 3 to 30 months. Subjective stress urinary incontinence 'cure/improvement' rates after surgery were significantly lower in older women when compared with younger women in only one study, although similar trends were seen in two additional studies. Intraoperative complications occurred at similar rates in older and younger women. Postoperative complications (urinary tract infection, urgency, voiding dysfunction, and mesh erosion) were more common in older women in only a few studies.

SUMMARY

Recent studies demonstrate that surgery for stress urinary incontinence in older women improves symptoms, although in some reports, not to the extent seen in younger women. It is unclear if some postoperative complications are more common in older women undergoing incontinence surgery. Results from randomized trials focusing on stress urinary incontinence surgery in older women are needed.

Interleukin-6, histamine, and methylhistamine as diagnostic markers for interstitial cystitis

OBJECTIVES

To examine the specificity and sensitivity of the inflammatory markers histamine, methylhistamine, and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the urine of patients with interstitial cystitis compared with that in healthy controls.

METHODS

A total of 40 women with interstitial cystitis and 29 healthy controls collected 24-hour urine samples. During the 24 hours before urine collection, all participants refrained from consuming foods and medications that could contain bioactive amines. Methylhistamine and histamine were measured using radioimmunoassay kits and were normalized to urinary creatinine levels; IL-6 was measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The data were analyzed by t tests, logistic regression analysis, and receiver operating characteristics.

RESULTS

IL-6 and histamine were significantly greater in the patients with interstitial cystitis than in the controls (P = 0.0003 and P = 0.038, respectively). The methylhistamine levels were also greater in the patients with interstitial cystitis than in the controls, but the results did not reach significance (P = 0.063). Using a combination of IL-6 and methylhistamine/creatinine, cutoff points were established. Using these cutoff points, the sensitivity was 70.0%, specificity 72.4%, positive predictive value 77.8%, and negative predictive value 63.6%.

CONCLUSIONS

All three markers--histamine, methylhistamine, and IL-6--were greater in the patients with interstitial cystitis than in the controls. A combination of methylhistamine and IL-6 could be used as a sensitive and specific marker for interstitial cystitis.

Urodynamic assessment of sphincteric function in the incontinent female: which test, and does it matter anyway?

The overall prevalence of urinary incontinence among women surveyed in the United States is approximately 37%. The lifetime risk of undergoing urinary incontinence surgery for women in the United States is estimated to be 11.1%. Conservative therapy can be instituted without performing extensive evaluation such as urodynamics, voiding cystourethrograms, ultrasonography, or video studies. Further evaluation is recommended when conservative measures have failed or if invasive, potentially morbid surgical therapies are being considered. This paper reviews the available methods for evaluating the urinary sphincter in the incontinent female.

Efficacy of sacral neuromodulation for symptomatic treatment of refractory urinary urge incontinence

OBJECTIVES

To determine the efficacy and complications of sacral neuromodulation as therapy for refractory urinary urge incontinence.

METHODS

Forty-one patients (mean age 54.3 +/- 15.8 years) with urge incontinence refractory to conservative therapy (ie, pharmacologic, behavioral, biofeedback therapy) were retrospectively evaluated. The patients included those who received permanent one-staged or two-staged InterStim implants. Surgical implantation of the InterStim was performed in patients who experienced a greater than 50% reduction in urge incontinence symptoms, as documented by voiding diaries during a 3 to 7-day test stimulation period.

RESULTS

Ninety percent of patients had 50% or greater improvement in presenting symptoms and quality-of-life parameters after InterStim implantation, with a median follow-up of 12 months (interquartile range 12 to 26.5) for single-stage and 4.5 months (interquartile range 1.5 to 12) for staged implants (P = 0.0003 Wilcoxon rank-sum test). Patients with urge incontinence had a significant reduction in mean leaking episodes (from 8.8 to 2.3 per day, P = 0.0001), with a significant decrease in the mean number of pads used (from 4.7 to 0.82 per day, P < 0.0001). No patient experienced operative complications, and postoperative complications were encountered in 29% of patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results have demonstrated that sacral neuromodulation is a safe and effective approach for the treatment of urinary urge incontinence that is refractory to other more conservative forms of treatment.

Evaluation and management of malfunctioning sacral neuromodulator

OBJECTIVES

To describe a strategy for revising the malfunctioning InterStim device and to provide an algorithm for evaluation and management.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 82 patients who had undergone InterStim placement. Ten patients (eight women and two men) experienced complications and subsequently underwent revision of their device between October 2001 and October 2003. Five patients had originally received a permanent implant after a successful percutaneous test stimulation trial, and five had undergone a test stimulation using the tined lead. Indications for revision included gradual onset of recurrent voiding dysfunction (n = 2), lead migration (n = 5), generator malfunction (n = 1), generator site pain and infection (n = 1), and genital/rectal pain with stimulation (sensory discomfort; n = 1).

RESULTS

Of the 10 patients who underwent revision, 7 experienced complete resolution of their problem. Eight patients had lead site changes and two had generator replacements. No intraoperative or postoperative complications occurred in the revision cases.

CONCLUSIONS

In our experience, 70% of patients who undergo revision of the malfunctioning InterStim can expect success. In this study, no difference in success appeared to be related to the original cause of malfunction. In the management of malfunctioning sacral neuromodulators, we recommend an attempt at revision before permanent explantation.

Symptoms and cystoscopic findings in patients with untreated interstitial cystitis

OBJECTIVES

To examine the relationships between symptoms and cystoscopic findings in women newly diagnosed with interstitial cystitis who had not previously received treatment.

METHODS

Twelve newly diagnosed and not previously treated women with interstitial cystitis completed a bladder symptom questionnaire the day before undergoing cystoscopy, hydrodistension, and biopsy. The daily voiding frequency was reported. Cystoscopic findings were converted to a numerical scale, and the data were analyzed using Pearson correlations.

RESULTS

Pain symptoms had consistent positive correlations with the cystoscopic findings. An increase in pain with bladder filling was associated with inflammation (P = 0.011), ulceration, and smaller bladder capacity. Pain relief after voiding correlated with smaller bladder capacity (P = 0.019), hematuria, and total cystoscopic score. Pain intensity in the urethra was related to ulceration and hematuria, and pain in the lower abdomen was related to a smaller bladder capacity (P = 0.047), glomerulations, and a larger total cystoscopic score. Daytime frequency correlated negatively with most cystoscopic findings, and nocturnal frequency had a positive relationship with most cystoscopic findings and was significantly associated with a smaller bladder capacity (P = 0.010). Urgency showed no strong associations with any cystoscopic findings.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with untreated interstitial cystitis, a strong correlation between pain and cystoscopic findings was observed. The differences between our results and those of previous studies that found no relationship between symptom reports and cystoscopic findings suggest possible effects of treatment on pain perception and therapeutic influence on cystoscopic findings.

Associated pelvic organ prolapse in women with stress urinary incontinence: when to operate?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review discusses recently published data concerning the indications for pelvic organ prolapse (POP) surgery in women who present with stress urinary incontinence (SUI).

RECENT FINDINGS

POP can functionally mask SUI. Surgery for POP may unmask occult SUI in many women. Clinically continent women undergoing POP surgery are at risk for developing symptomatic SUI postoperatively. Preoperative identification of occult (and overt) SUI will facilitate the use of an appropriate prophylactic anti-incontinence procedure at the time of prolapse repair. Numerous studies on the preoperative prediction of SUI following repair of POP have been conducted in an effort to determine whether concomitant prophylactic measures should be taken at the time of POP repair to prevent the postoperative unmasking of SUI in women who do not have SUI preoperatively (with or without prolapse reduction). Although the literary evidence available is not sufficient for POP with occult SUI, there is some information available to guide clinicians in deciding when to perform concurrent POP surgery in women who are undergoing primary surgery for SUI.

SUMMARY

The intended goal of surgical correction of SUI and POP is durable restoration of normal anatomy and function, with symptomatic relief and avoidance of morbidity. Recommendations regarding when to surgically intervene for POP in women who present with SUI are based on the available literature although contemporary studies are few and include small numbers of patients with no controls. Long-term, randomized, controlled prospective studies of large numbers of patients are indicated.