Fisiopatología, evaluación y estrategias terapéuticas de la cistitis intersticial, una causa de dolor pélvico crónico

Abstract

Interstitial cystitis is a clinical syndrome, which is part of a widely overlooked and underdiagnosed reason for consultation that mostly affects the female sex, with unclear etiology. It is a chronic condition characterized by pelvic pain in association with urinary symptoms. Its diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms and ruling out other pathological options. Treatment is aimed at controlling symptoms and improving the patient's quality of life, leaving surgical options as alternatives when initial therapeutic measures have failed. Commonly misdiagnosed due to the heterogeneity of its symptoms, diverse conceptualization and complex pathophysiology, correct determination of the symptoms that reflect the presence of interstitial cystitis early allows an effective approach to the pathology. The comprehensive assessment of the patient is the fundamental pillar to reach the diagnosis, and thus initiate the most appropriate therapeutic approach, in order to obtain optimal control of the symptoms, emotional burden and quality of life of the patient.