Overactive Bladder in Diabetes Mellitus

Purpose of ReviewTo explore the current literature regarding the epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of overactive bladder in diabetic patients.Recent FindingsOveractive bladder is a syndrome complex of urinary urgency, often accompanied by frequency and nocturia. Several studies have established the relationship between diabetes mellitus and bladder dysfunction. However, there is limited literature available to evaluate the prevalence of overactive bladder in this population and to guide clinical practice. The introduction of medications such as mirabegron and minimally invasive techniques such as intravesicular onabotulinumtoxinA injections has resulted in a shift in the treatment model for overactive bladder. New technologies for treatment such as radiofrequency therapy are also under active development. Ongoing research seeks to further understand the mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of overactive bladder and identify biomarkers.SummaryWith the increasing prevalence of diabetes mellitus, it is expected that patients with overactive bladder symptoms will be seen more frequently. The American Urological Association (AUA) and Society of Urodynamics and the Female Pelvic Medicine & Urogenital Reconstruction (SUFU) recently updated the guidelines for the diagnosis for overactive bladder in 2019. However, there are important considerations in diabetic patients that may alter clinical evaluation and management. We tried to shed some light on these diagnostic considerations and the management options available to diabetic patients.