Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms in Elderly Population With Multiple Sclerosis

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Urology
• Geriatrics

Background:

• Multiple sclerosis (MS) can cause urinary dysfunction affecting quality of life.
• Understanding age-related differences in MS-related urinary disorders is crucial for targeted care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare clinical and urodynamic characteristics of urinary disorders in geriatric versus nongeriatric multiple sclerosis (MS) patients.
• To identify specific differences in symptoms, treatment, and impact on daily life.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study (2010-2016) matching geriatric MS patients (≥65 years) with two younger MS patients (<65 years) based on sex, MS form, and EDSS.
• Collected demographic data, urinary symptoms, treatment, quality of life, and urodynamic parameters.
• Statistical analysis using Student's t-test, chi-square, or Fisher's exact test.

Main Results:

• Maximum urethral closure pressure was significantly lower in geriatric MS patients (35.6±18.5 cm H2O) compared to younger patients (78.2±52.3 cm H2O).
• In females, younger patients reported more voiding symptoms (low stream), while geriatric patients received less urinary treatment.
• Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) had a lesser impact on quality of life in geriatric female MS patients.

Conclusions:

• Geriatric MS patients exhibit minimal differences in urinary disorders compared to younger counterparts when matched for EDSS, sex, and MS form.
• The psychological burden of urinary issues is notably less in elderly female MS patients.