Interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS): Single-center 20 year experience and treatment results in India

Objectives Interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) is an enigmatic disease that is difficult to treat. Even among physicians, the prevalent belief is that patients do not improve over time. In this study, we retrospectively reviewed our experience and treatment results for patients diagnosed with IC/BPS at our clinic in India over the past 20 years. Materials and Methods Three hundred and eighty IC/BPS patients diagnosed between January 2001 and December 2020 were included. Patients underwent cystoscopy and hydrodistension and were treated with oral drugs, intravesical instillations, and surgery as needed. From January 2021 to June 2021, all patients were contacted by telephone. Results The study had 380 participants, but only 231 could be contacted for analysis. Follow-up averaged 6.37 years and the median was 14 years. Eighteen percent showed no improvement, 2% showed a slight improvement on Global Response Assessment (GRA) questionnaire and were considered nonresponders (NR). Yet, 67% reported notable improvements, and 13% moderate improvements, all of which make up 80% responders (R). In 11 patients who were operated on for ileocystoplasty, 9 showed significant improvements. In addition, three patients developed Urothelial Malignancy. Pregnancy did not affect the disease in any way. Conclusions Long-term results have been encouraging for IC/BPS patients. Unfortunately, Hunner's lesions patients need a more intensive treatment regimen. Re-evaluation with cystoscopy is recommended in NR. In spite of good results of surgery in our series, it is best to perform surgery only as a last resort.

Automated summary

This study retrospectively reviewed the experience and treatment results of 380 patients diagnosed with IC/BPS at a clinic in India over the past 20 years. The results showed that 67% of patients had notable improvements, 13% had moderate improvements, and 18% showed no improvement. Surgery was found to be effective in improving symptoms, but it is recommended as a last resort.