Current Concepts in Urinary Biomarkers for Overactive Bladder: What Is the Evidence?

• Published in: Current bladder dysfunction reports 2017-12, Vol.12 (4), p.260-267
• Main Authors: Pennycuff, Jon F., Northington, Gina M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Geriatrics/Gerontology; Gynecology; Medicine; Medicine & Public Health; Reconstructed Bladder Function & Dysfunction (M Kaufman; Section Editor; Topical Collection on Reconstructed Bladder Function & Dysfunction; Urology
• ISSN: 1931-7212; 1931-7220
• DOI: 10.1007/s11884-017-0430-7

Purpose of Review Over the last decades, much research has been done to discover biomarkers that can be used to better elucidate the pathophysiology of lower urinary tract disorders. Particular attention has been paid to the inflammatory response and the development of lower urinary tract disorders. The purpose of this review article is to summarize the current understanding of inflammatory urinary biomarkers’ role in the pathophysiology of overactive bladder. Their utility in clinical evaluation and treatment response as well as methodologic limitations in the research of these biomarkers are also discussed. Recent Findings Much of the past research on urinary biomarkers focused on a few molecules, with particular emphasis on neurotrophins. Newer research is beginning to include other signaling molecules such as cytokines and chemokines as well as proteins found in the urothelium. The development of lower urinary tract disorders likely involves a complex interplay between these molecules. However, the inflammatory process appears to play a key role in the pathogenesis of these disorders. Summary The role of inflammatory urinary biomarkers in the development of overactive bladder and lower urinary tract disorders and their clinical diagnosis remains unclear. Continued research on these molecules may help better understand the underlying pathophysiology of these disorders. Single urinary biomarkers have not proven sufficient for diagnosis. Instead, future research will likely focus on unique urinary biomarker “finger prints” of multiple molecules to better understand, diagnose, and treat these disorders.