Related Experiment Videos
Upper urinary tract abnormalities in multiple sclerosis patients with urinary symptoms
J A Sliwa1, H K Bell, K D Mason
1Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Northwestern University Medical School, Chicago, IL, USA.
Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
|March 1, 1996
Summary
Twenty-one percent of multiple sclerosis (MS) patients with urinary symptoms showed upper urinary tract complications. More disabled MS patients with urinary hesitancy or specific bladder management showed increased risk.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Neurology
- Nephrology
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) can cause neurogenic bladder dysfunction, increasing the risk of urinary tract complications.
- Upper urinary tract (UUT) complications are a significant concern in MS patients with bladder issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of UUT complications in MS patients experiencing urinary symptoms.
- To investigate the association between the degree of physical impairment and UUT complications in MS.
Main Methods:
- A cohort study was conducted involving 48 MS patients with neurogenic bladder dysfunction.
- Patients were assessed using ultrasound for UUT abnormalities and categorized by the Kurtzke Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS).
Main Results:
- 21% of MS patients (10 out of 48) exhibited significant MS-related UUT abnormalities.
- In the more disabled group (EDSS ≥ 7), UUT abnormalities correlated with urinary hesitancy and bladder management methods (p < .05).
Conclusions:
- Routine screening for UUT complications is recommended for select MS patients presenting with urinary symptoms.
- Early detection and management of UUT issues can potentially mitigate long-term complications in MS.