Interstitial cystitis is frequently confused with bladder cancer, active urinary tract infections, and gynecological diseases due to its symptoms. Therefore, the diagnostic process requires meticulous evaluation. Scientific and multidisciplinary approaches are implemented in modern urology clinics during the diagnosis and treatment process.
Most Common Symptoms
The most common symptoms observed in patients with interstitial cystitis include:
- Pelvic and Groin Pain: Chronic pain below the navel and around the genitals that increases as the bladder fills and eases after urination.
- Excessive Urinary Frequency (Pollakiuria): The need to urinate frequently during the day and waking up at night (30-60 times a day).
- Urinary Urgency: A sudden and compelling urge to urinate that cannot be delayed.
- Painful Intercourse (Dyspareunia): Increased pelvic pain during and after sexual intercourse.
Diagnostic Methods
There is no single test to diagnose interstitial cystitis; it is a "diagnosis of exclusion." Following urinalysis, ultrasonography, and urodynamic tests, cystoscopy (visual examination of the bladder under general anesthesia combined with hydrodistension), the gold standard diagnostic method, is performed. A definitive diagnosis is established by observing hemorrhages (glomerulations) or typical Hunner's ulcers on the bladder wall during cystoscopy.