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Current Bladder Dysfunction Reports

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01-09-2021 | Neurogenic Bladder (C Powell, Section Editor)

Neuroanatomy of Bladder Pain

Authors: Tyler Sheetz, J. Quentin Clemens, Irene Crescenze

Published in: Current Bladder Dysfunction Reports | Issue 3/2021

Abstract

Purpose of Review

In this review, we summarize the most recent literature on neurobiology of bladder pain in a systematic fashion starting with end organ, peripheral nervous system, the spinal cord, and ending with the brain. Special attention is dedicated to pain processing in patients with spinal cord injury.

Recent Findings

Chronic bladder pain is not an isolated entity and is in fact a result of a complex interaction between the end organ, surrounding structures, and peripheral and central nervous system. The afferent fibers collecting the information from the bladder urothelium and mucosa are a very diverse population and respond not only to stretch but also to noxious and chemical signaling. Neuroinflammation appears to be central to the process of sensitization. Imaging and molecular evidence is emerging noting actual alterations in signaling pathways and neuroanatomy in patients with chronic pelvic pain beyond the end organ.

Summary

Tremendous progress has been made to better understand the complex pathophysiology of bladder pain on a molecular and neuroanatomic level. Ideally, this information can be utilized to better identify specific and individualized intervention targets for patients with chronic bladder pain.

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Title: Neuroanatomy of Bladder Pain
Authors: Tyler Sheetz
J. Quentin Clemens
Irene Crescenze
Publication date: 01-09-2021
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Current Bladder Dysfunction Reports / Issue 3/2021
Print ISSN: 1931-7212
Electronic ISSN: 1931-7220
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11884-021-00629-0

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Neuroanatomy of Bladder Pain

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Recent Findings

Summary

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Recent Findings

Summary

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