Lower urinary tract dysfunction in patients with gastroparesis

Purpose: We characterized the bladder dysfunction in patients with idiopathic gastroparesis and compared it to findings in those with gastroparesis secondary to diabetes mellitus. Materials and Methods: The clinical and urodynamic records of 17 patients with gastroparesis (10 idiopathic and 7 secondary to diabetes mellitus) were retrospectively reviewed. Results: 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. Conclusions: 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.