Lower urinary tract dysfunction in patients with gastroparesis.

Abstract

We characterized the bladder dysfunction in patients with idiopathic gastroparesis and compared it to findings in those with gastroparesis secondary to diabetes mellitus. The clinical and urodynamic records of 17 patients with gastroparesis (10 idiopathic and 7 secondary to diabetes mellitus) were retrospectively reviewed. Urinary frequency and difficulty emptying were the predominant symptoms that led to patient referral. Overall this population demonstrated diminished bladder sensation, increased capacity, decreased flow rates, elevated post-void residuals and increased rates of abdominal straining. Patients with idiopathic gastroparesis had more severe dysfunction than those with gastroparesis secondary to diabetes mellitus. An association between idiopathic gastroparesis and bladder dysfunction exists. These patients have bladder dysfunction that parallels but is more severe than that in patients with gastroparesis secondary to diabetes mellitus. A common autonomic neuropathic syndrome may account for both problems.