Multiple sclerosis, urinary tract infections and infertility: a comprehensive scoping review

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that involves the central nervous system. MS is prevalent among young adults and progressively destroys axons and myelin. Individuals with MS often experience complications, such as lower urinary tract dysfunction, urinary tract infections (UTIs) and sexual dysfunction. In young adults MS may cause sexual dysfunction and infertility, which worsens as the disease progresses. The available evidence from different studies (microbiological and clinical studies, retrieved from PubMed and Scopus databases) on possible microbial pathogens causing MS was reviewed. Lower urinary tract dysfunction, UTIs and sexual dysfunction were investigated in people with MS. Over the past two decades advances in MS treatment have significantly slowed disease progression and altered its natural history. However, UTI and sexual dysfunction continue to pose substantial challenges for affected patients. As there is a causal relationship between UTIs and corticosteroid use during outbreaks, awareness of essential complications of MS, such as UTIs and infertility, is crucial for prevention, early diagnosis, and adequate management.