Cutaneous stimulation of the bladder in multiple sclerosis: a case report

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Urology

Background:

• Multiple sclerosis (MS) frequently causes neurogenic bladder dysfunction, including hypotonic bladder, leading to incomplete emptying.
• Hypotonic bladder in MS patients presents challenges for management and quality of life.

Observation:

• A case study involving a multiple sclerosis patient with a hypotonic bladder was conducted.
• The patient underwent trials of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) to assess its effect on bladder function.

Findings:

• Urodynamic testing revealed decreased bladder capacity during TENS application.
• Earlier first sensation of bladder filling was observed.
• Increased bladder pressure was noted during stimulation trials, suggesting improved detrusor muscle activity.

Implications:

• Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation shows promise as a therapeutic option for improving bladder emptying in MS patients with hypotonic bladders.
• Further research with larger sample sizes is warranted to confirm these findings and establish optimal TENS parameters.
• This approach could offer a non-invasive, conservative management strategy for neurogenic bladder dysfunction in multiple sclerosis.