Interstitial cystitis and the gynecologist.

Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a predominantly female condition with the presenting symptoms of frequency of micturition and pain. The diagnosis is confirmed by bladder visualization at cystoscopy during filling, emptying, and redistension. The epidemiology, proposed etiologies, and current therapies for interstitial cystitis are discussed. The condition of IC is poorly understood and has no specific histological characteristics. However, there is much that can be offered to the IC sufferer to relieve or cure her symptoms. It is hoped that the recent decade of increasing research activity will be fruitful in answering questions of etiology and pathogenesis, and offering hope for new therapies and ultimately cure.