Cystitis; noninfectious (acute urethral syndrome)

Definition:

An irritation of the bladder not caused by a urinary tract infection; causes include radiation therapy to the pelvis area, chemotherapy with certain types of medications, and other irritants. Symptoms are similar to those caused by a urinary tract infection.

Diagnosis of a noninfectious cystitis is usually assumed when no infectious agent (bacteria) can be identified as the cause of the symptoms.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Noninfectious cystitis is most common in women of child-bearing years. The exact cause of noninfectious cystitis is often unknown, however, use of bubble baths, feminine hygeine sprays, sanitary napkins, and spermicidal jellies may be posible causes.

Radiation therapy of the pelvic organs or chemotherapy medications may also cause a noninfectious cystitis.

See also interstitial cystitis.