title: 30-minute evaluation of incontinence in the older woman.
abstract: The key to successful management of urinary incontinence in the older woman is accurate diagnosis of the underlying condition. A simple 30-minute in-office evaluation answers the important questions that increase the likelihood of reaching the correct diagnosis. This core evaluation includes a history and physical exam, urinalysis and other basic lab tests, assessment of urethral angulation, and a simple cystometrogram. A patient voiding diary may also help to pinpoint the severity of incontinence. Further testing is required if symptoms fail to resolve after empiric therapy.
authors.affiliation: Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University/Hutzel Hospital, Detroit.
authors.forename: L J
authors.initials: LJ
authors.lastname: McIntosh
authors.forename: D A
authors.initials: DA
authors.lastname: Richardson
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008487:Medical History Taking; D008875:Middle Aged; D010808:Physical Examination; D014549:Urinary Incontinence / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology; D014563:Urodynamics