Figure 1.

The proposed pathogonesis of IC/PBS and standard therapies for IC/PBS. An initial insult to the bladder results in the damage of the bladder epithelial layer that, for example, allows potassium to leak in and to prompt a cascade of events, each contributing to tissue inflammation and sensory fiber activation thereby inducing pain sensation in the lower urinary tract (LUT). Various standard drug treatments that have been employed for IC/PBS are depicted showing the level(s) at which these factors are involved in blocking the inflammatory or neurogenic processes that lead to IC/PBS pain. IC/PBS, interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome.