Bladder Pain Syndrome/Interstitial Cystitis

Abstract

Bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis (BPS/IC) is a condition characterized by chronic pelvic pain, pressure, or discomfort perceived to be related to the bladder. It is a chronic visceral painful condition of unknown etiology that affects millions of people worldwide. Symptoms can be so severe that patients with BPS/IC may have quality of life with lower scores than those treated for end-stage renal disease. There is no cure for BPS/IC. Thus, the main goal of available treatments is to decrease the intensity of lower urinary tract symptoms, in particular pain. Thus, a tailor-made treatment plan directed toward the patient’s unique clinical phenotype or main complaint should be the gold standard.