Cystitis - noninfectious

Alternative names

Abacterial cystitis; Radiation cystitis; Chemical cystitis; Urethral syndrome - acute

Definition

Noninfectious cystitis is an irritation of the bladder not caused by a urinary tract infection. Causes include radiation therapy to the pelvis area, chemotherapy with certain types of medications, and other irritants. Symptoms are similar to those caused by a urinary tract infection.

Diagnosis of noninfectious cystitis is usually made when no bacteria can be identified as the cause of the symptoms.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Noninfectious cystitis is most common in women of childbearing years. The exact cause of noninfectious cystitis is often unknown. However, use of bubble baths, feminine hygiene sprays, sanitary napkins, and spermicidal jellies may be possible causes.

Radiation therapy of the pelvic organs or chemotherapy medications may also cause noninfectious cystitis.

See also interstitial cystitis.

Symptoms

• Pressure in the lower pelvis
  
• Urination, painful (dysuria)
  
• Frequent need to urinate (frequency)
  
• Urgent need to urinate (urgency)
  
• Decreased ability to hold urine
  
• Need to urinate at night
  
• Abnormal urine color - cloudy
  
• Blood in the urine (hematuria)
  
• Foul or strong urine odor
  

Additional symptoms that may be associated with this disease:

• Pain during sexual intercourse
  
• Penile pain
  
• Flank pain
  
• Fatigue
  

Signs and tests

A urinalysis may reveal red blood cells (RBCs) and some white blood cells (WBCs).

A urine culture (clean catch) or catheterized urine specimen will not reveal any bacteria in the urine.

Treatment

Treatment of noninfectious cystitis centers on management of symptoms rather than providing a cure.

MEDICATIONS:

Noninfectious cystitis is often treated with anti-cholinergic drugs that improve bladder contraction and emptying. Possible side effects include slowed heart rate, low blood pressure, increased thirst, and stomach discomfort.