The Hormonal Status of Female Patients of Reproductive Age with Chronic Cystitis and Undifferentiated Connective Tissue Dysplasia
Study Objective: To study the hormonal status of female patients of reproductive age with chronic cystitis and undifferentiated connective tissue dysplasia (UCTD). Study Design: This was a prospective cohort study. Materials and Methods: Six hundred and fifteen female chronic cystitis patients were examined in the study. The following parameters were measured: luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), prolactin, estradiol, progesterone, cortisol, and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). The women were examined for clinical signs of UCTD, and connective-tissue metabolism markers were assessed. Urination disorders were assessed by the International Prostate Symptom Score. Other study methods included combined urodynamic testing and urethrocystoscopy with biopsy. Study Results: The examination revealed a high prevalence of gynecological disorders, mostly of inflammatory origin. UCTD was diagnosed in 73.5% women; the frequency of urination disorders was significantly higher in these women. Women in the study cohort tended to have lower levels of estradiol and higher levels of TSH, prolactin, and cortisol. They also had various changes in the bladder wall, which were most significant in women with UCTD. Conclusion: Low estradiol levels and UCTD are significant factors in the nature of inflammatory changes in the bladder wall. It would be logical to suggest that in women of reproductive age, recurrent cystitis can be effectively treated only if they receive appropriate treatment for hormonal imbalances and timely care for their gynecological comorbidities.