Bladder pain syndrome

Bladder pain syndrome (BPS) is the occurrence of persistent or recurrent pain perceived in the urinary bladder region, accompanied by at least one other symptom, such as pain worsening with bladder filling and day-time and/or night-time urinary frequency.

There is no proven infection or other obvious local pathology. BPS is often associated with negative cognitive, behavioural, sexual or emotional consequences, as well as with symptoms suggestive of lower urinary tract and sexual dysfunction. BPS is believed to represent a heterogeneous spectrum of disorders. There may be specific types of inflammation as a feature in subsets of patients.

Localisation of the pain can be difficult by examination, and consequently, another localising symptom is required.

Cystoscopy with hydrodistension and biopsy may be indicated to define phenotypes.