Objective differences between overactive bladder patients with and without urodynamically proven detrusor overactivity

Introduction and hypothesis: This paper aims to determine if there are differences between female overactive bladder (OAB) patients with and without urodynamic detrusor overactivity (DO). Methods: A retrospective chart review was performed on 146 women with OAB. All patients completed an American Urological Association symptom score, 48-h bladder diary (documenting voided volumes, incontinent episodes, and degree of urgency to void), and urodynamic testing (UDS). Patients with urodynamic DO were then compared to patients without DO. Results: There were no differences in symptom scores. Patients with DO (54.1%) were older (61.8 vs. 50.8 years) and had smaller maximum voided volumes per void (377 mL vs. 476 mL), average 24-h urine output (1,975 mL vs. 2,320 mL), and significantly more incontinent episodes. On UDS, patients with DO were more likely to have abnormal sensation, with strong desire and urgency occurring at significantly lower bladder volumes. Conclusion: Despite similar symptomatology, there are objective differences between OAB patients with and without DO.