[Interstitial cystitis. Current aspects of diagnosis and therapy]

Interstitial cystitis is a chronic, heterogeneous syndrome that is characterized by the classic symptoms of bladder pain, nycturia, and pollakiuria. Population studies have shown an increase in prevalence and incidence. Different hypotheses exist about the etiology and pathogenesis. Epithelial dysfunction and neuro-urothelial interaction are the most frequently used causal models. Utilization of the official diagnosis criteria of the NIDDK (National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Disease) should be flexible and individual in order not to overlook early forms of IC. Since there is no pathognomonic marker, diagnosis of IC is a combination of typical patient history and exclusion of differential diagnoses. Cystoscopy and biopsies are not specific; however, they can provide useful information on extent and aid in treatment choice. The effectiveness of conservative therapy has been increased by using electromotive drug administration (EMDA) in instillation therapy.