title: Interstitial cystitis.
abstract: Interstitial cystitis is a urologic disorder with protean pelvic manifestations (urologic, gynecologic, gastroenterologic) and variable prevalence. Although current research indicates a non-bacteriologic etiology, interstitial cystitis has features suggestive of autoimmunity, a deficient bladder wall lining, activated bladder sensory neuropeptides and bladder mastocytosis. Pentosan polysulfate sodium is a recently approved oral treatment for interstitial cystitis. Further research into the gynecologic and pain aspects of interstitial cystitis is clearly needed.
authors.affiliation: Department of Urology, New England Medical Center Hospitals, Boston, MA 02111, USA. grannum.sant@es.nemc.org
authors.forename: G R
authors.initials: GR
authors.lastname: Sant
mesh_terms: D000894:Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001327:Autoimmune Diseases / Q000276:immunology; D015415:Biomarkers; D016572:Cyclosporine / Q000627:therapeutic use; D015653:Cystectomy; D018856:Cystitis, Interstitial / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D008407:Mast Cells / Q000276:immunology; D010426:Pentosan Sulfuric Polyester / Q000627:therapeutic use
chemical_list: D000894:Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal; D015415:Biomarkers; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents; D010426:Pentosan Sulfuric Polyester; D016572:Cyclosporine