Impact of Autonomic Dysfunction on Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms

Casey G. Kowalik, Joshua A. Cohn, Melissa R. Kaufman, W. Stuart Reynolds, Roger R. Dmochowski, Douglas F. Milam

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

2 Scopus citations

Abstract

Purpose of Review: Normal bladder function involves complex interactions of the autonomic nervous system. Patients with autonomic disorders may experience lower urinary tract dysfunction due to disruption of the micturition pathways. In this article, we review relevant anatomy involved in the neural control of micturition and examine the impact of functional and structural autonomic disorders on the lower urinary tract. Recent Findings: Depending on the etiology and localization of the autonomic disorder, patients with dysautonomias can experience a variety of urinary symptoms, including urinary hesitancy, urgency, and incontinence. Studies suggest a clinical association between diabetes and bladder dysfunction as a result of autonomic neuropathy. The majority of patients with lower urinary tract symptoms and multiple system atrophy or Parkinson’s disease has detrusor overactivity on urodynamic evaluation, reflecting that the voiding reflex is not inhibited by supraspinal control centers. Recent data also shows that alterations in the autonomic system may be involved in the pathogenesis of bladder pain syndrome and interstitial cystitis. Summary: LUT dysfunction in patients with autonomic disorders can significantly affect quality of life and be difficult to treat, highlighting a need for continued research efforts in this area.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)273-279
Number of pages7
JournalCurrent Bladder Dysfunction Reports
Volume12
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 1 2017
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Autonomic dysreflexia
  • Autonomic nervous system
  • Bladder dysfunction
  • Detrusor sphincter dyssynergia
  • Lower urinary tract symptoms
  • Overactive bladder

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