Pathogenesis and brain functional imaging in nocturnal enuresis: A review

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Developmental Pediatrics
• Urology

Background:

• Nocturnal enuresis (bedwetting) is a common childhood condition causing significant psychosocial distress.
• Its exact causes remain unclear, though multifactorial influences are suspected.
• Existing theories involve genetics, hormone regulation, bladder function, sleep disturbances, and brain maturation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current hypotheses on the pathogenesis of nocturnal enuresis.
• To explore the application of functional neuroimaging in understanding enuresis mechanisms.
• To summarize recent findings from neuroimaging studies.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on nocturnal enuresis.
• Focus on functional neuroimaging techniques: structural MRI, fMRI (task-based, event-related, resting-state).
• Analysis of studies correlating neuroimaging findings with enuresis.

Main Results:

• Neuroimaging studies suggest both functional and structural brain alterations in individuals with nocturnal enuresis.
• Specific findings relate to brain morphometry and activity patterns during sleep and arousal.
• These alterations may underlie the complex mechanisms of bedwetting.

Conclusions:

• Nocturnal enuresis is likely a complex neurodevelopmental disorder.
• Functional neuroimaging offers valuable insights into its pathogenesis.
• Further research using these techniques is crucial for understanding and treating enuresis.