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Non-neurogenic Chronic Urinary Retention: What Are We Treating?

  • Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms & Voiding Dysfunction (J Sandhu, Section Editor)
  • Published:
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

This review examines current terminology used to define non-neurogenic chronic urinary retention (CUR), describes the pathophysiology of urinary retention, and highlights contemporary diagnostic and treatment algorithms.

Recent Findings

There is no standardized definition for the condition, but volumes >300 ml are commonly used to describe CUR. It is a clinical diagnosis which does not require urodynamics. Pathophysiologic causes of CUR be from myogenic, neurogenic, bladder outlet obstruction, or a combination of these sources. Treatment algorithms recommend stratifying patients with chronic urinary retention by risk and by symptoms before initiating treatment. Common CUR outcome endpoints need to be better utilized so that treatment modalities can be compared.

Summary

Non-neurogenic CUR is a heterogeneous condition that has multiple definitions, underlying physiologies, and possible endpoints. Standardization is needed to better understand and treat CUR.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Urology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA

    John T. Stoffel

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Correspondence to John T. Stoffel.

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John Stoffel reports grants from PCORI and Uroplasty.

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This article does not contain any studies with human or animal subjects performed by any of the authors.

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This article is part of the Topical Collection on Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms & Voiding Dysfunction

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Stoffel, J.T. Non-neurogenic Chronic Urinary Retention: What Are We Treating?. Curr Urol Rep 18, 74 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11934-017-0719-2

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11934-017-0719-2

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