Lower urinary tract dysfunctions in patients with diabetes mellitus

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a endocrine metabolic disorder that is associated with many complications and lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) is one of them. In addition LUTD can be caused by many other disorders and sometimes it can be difficult to isolate the cause. Incidence of diabetes is increasing and prevalence is expected to increase worldwide to 300 million people in 2025. The most important causes for diabetes and lower urinary tract abnormalities are diabetic neuropathy caused by hyperglycaemia. Approximately 50% of diabetic patients develop some form of neuropathy. Diabetes can cause LUTD many ways and research have shown many possible mechanisms involved. Among the suggested mechanisms are up-regulation of muscarinic receptors, smooth muscle hypertrophy, increase in myosin light chain phosphorylation and changes of certain calcium sensitive potassiumchannels (MaxiK). The increasing knowledge of pathophysiology and pathogenesis of LUTD made it necessary with a new approach to patients, terminology changes, better definitions and classifications. Among the contributors is European urologic association (EUA). The importance of preventive measures and good treatment in diabetes can not be underestimated. Their role has an increasing importance today and for the future because of its negative...