Clinical aspects of the overactive bladder and detrusor overactivity.

Objective: The overactive bladder is a widespread medical condition with significant quality of life and financial impact. Despite this much remains unknown about the epidemiology and pathophysiology of this condition. This review gives an overview of the current knowledge base and the recent terminology changes approved by the international continence society.

Methods: Critical review of the literature regarding aetiology, epidemiology, urodynamic and clinical aspects of detrusor overactivity. Explanation of the recently adopted terminology.

Results: The term "overactive bladder" has replaced the term "unstable bladder", which held no intuitive meaning. "Detrusor overactivity" is the corresponding urodynamic term, replacing "detrusor instability" and "detrusor hyperreflexia". Knowledge regarding the epidemiology of the overactive bladder is limited. The myogenic and neurogenic theories of pathophysiology require further evidence.

Conclusion: Massive research efforts are required into all aspects of this common chronic disease. The adoption of new ICS terminology will aid consistency in research.