Platelet-Rich Plasma in Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) is a chronic condition characterized by bladder pain and urinary urgency.
• Current treatment options for IC/BPS have limitations, necessitating novel therapeutic approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and evaluate the safety and efficacy of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy for managing IC/BPS.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple databases up to December 5, 2023.
• 13 studies involving 426 patients were included in the systematic review.
• Outcomes assessed included pain scores (VAS), IC symptoms (O'Leary-Sant score), urinary frequency, nocturia, and bladder capacity.

Main Results:

• PRP therapy demonstrated a significant reduction in pain scores compared to baseline (MD: -1.93, 95% CI: -2.28, -1.58).
• Subgroup analyses confirmed decreased VAS scores following PRP injection.
• Significant improvements were observed in O'Leary-Sant scores and IC symptoms post-treatment.

Conclusions:

• PRP therapy presents a potentially novel and effective treatment option for IC/BPS.
• Further controlled studies are required to optimize treatment regimens and elucidate the mechanisms of action of PRP in IC/BPS.