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

Diagnostics, 2022 · DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12010191 · Published: January 13, 2022

Simple Explanation

Multiple sclerosis (MS) can lead to problems with bladder control, known as neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD). This can potentially harm the upper urinary tract (kidneys). Doctors use tests like urodynamics to check bladder function, but there's disagreement on when to use them. This study aimed to find clinical signs that could predict NLUTD in MS patients. The study found that bladder diaries and tracking urinary tract infections are important for identifying patients who might need urodynamic testing.

Study Duration

February 2017 to June 2019

Participants

207 patients with Multiple Sclerosis

Evidence Level

Prospective Study

Key Findings

1
Post-void residual, urinary tract infection rate, voided volume, and increased standardized voiding frequency significantly correlated with urodynamic findings indicative of neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction.
2
Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) scores did not show a correlation with NLUTD.
3
Increased standardized voiding frequency and urinary tract infection rate were associated with reduced bladder compliance.

Research Summary

This study aimed to identify clinical parameters indicative of neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD) in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients, independent of the presence of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). The results showed that post-void residual (PVR), urinary tract infection (UTI) rate, voided volume (VV), and increased standardized voiding frequency (SVF) were significantly correlated with urodynamic findings indicative of NLUTD. The conclusion emphasizes the importance of routinely assessing bladder diaries and urinary tract infection rates to identify patients who require urodynamics.

Practical Implications

Improved Patient Screening

Using bladder diaries and UTI assessments can help identify MS patients at risk for NLUTD who need further evaluation.

Optimized Resource Allocation

Focusing urodynamic studies on patients with specific clinical parameters can improve efficiency and reduce unnecessary testing.

Early Intervention

Identifying NLUTD early can lead to timely treatment and prevent upper urinary tract damage.

Study Limitations

1
Risk factors for UUTD were adopted from spina-bifida and spinal-cord-injury patients.
2
UDS in asymptomatic healthy individuals have generated variable results.
3
Data were collected by highly specialized neuro-urological departments.

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Urology