The natural history of the overactive bladder and detrusor overactivity. A review of the evidence regarding the long-term outcome of the overactive bladder.

PURPOSE

The overactive bladder is a widespread medical condition with significant impact on quality of life. We review the existing evidence about the prevalence, impact and long-term followup of the overactive bladder. We also summarize the new International Continence Society terminology associated with the overactive bladder.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A MEDLINE search of all available literature regarding the epidemiology and long-term followup or outcome of the overactive bladder was performed. All articles and relevant resources cited in those articles were reviewed.

RESULTS

The new International Continence Society terminology and definitions will allow greater consistency in future research. Two large, recently published surveys of the prevalence of overactive bladder give new insight into the widespread nature of the problem and its significant impact on quality of life. There is little good quality evidence currently available on the long-term outcome of overactive bladder.

CONCLUSIONS

There is little published evidence regarding the natural history of overactive bladder. While recent studies have improved understanding the prevalence of the condition, we still know little about long-term outcome. The few published studies suggest that it is a chronic condition that persists urodynamically and symptomatically.