Genetic Inheritance of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms in Adults: A Review

What is it about?

This systematic review aimed to evaluate the heritability and inheritance patterns of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in adults. Searches across five databases yielded 736 articles, with 34 studies meeting the criteria for final review. The studies covered various LUTS subtypes, including benign prostatic enlargement (BPE), urinary incontinence (UI), and overactive bladder (OAB). Genetic predisposition was noted for BPE symptoms, UI (MUI and UUI), nocturia, and frequency alone, while OAB and SUI showed more modest inheritance. The review utilized tools like the Cochrane Risk of Bias and the Johanna Briggs Institute checklist to assess study quality, and highlighted the need for further research to better understand the genetic factors influencing LUTS.

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Photo by Robert Koorenny on Unsplash

Photo by Robert Koorenny on Unsplash

Why is it important?

This systematic review is important because it compiles and evaluates the heritability and inheritance patterns of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in adult populations. Understanding the genetic factors contributing to LUTS can lead to better prevention strategies, more targeted treatments, and improved management of these common and impactful conditions. The review's findings highlight the complex nature of LUTS inheritance and emphasize the need for further research to fully elucidate the genetic mechanisms underlying these symptoms, potentially paving the way for personalized medicine approaches in urology. Key Takeaways: 1. Genetic Influence: The review provides evidence supporting a significant genetic influence on LUTS, with various symptoms showing different levels of heritability. This suggests that genetic factors play a crucial role in the development and manifestation of LUTS. 2. Symptom-Specific Inheritance: Different LUTS subtypes demonstrate varying degrees of genetic predisposition. For example, BPE symptoms, urinary incontinence (particularly MUI and UUI), and nocturia show strong genetic associations, while OAB and SUI exhibit more modest inheritance patterns. 3. Research Gaps: The review highlights the need for more extensive research to fully understand the inheritance patterns of LUTS, particularly given the heterogeneous nature of the pathogenetic and pharmacological mechanisms involved in symptom manifestation.