Phenotyping the detrusor underactivity: Is it more important than categorizing the symptomatic presentation of detrusor underactivity?

Abstract

AimsRecently, [Brown et al Neurourol Urodyn. 36:1151-1154, 2017] reported a remarkable study regarding detrusor underactivity (DU) by categorizing the possible phenotypes. Although this study presents novel findings on the possible phenotypes, several points need to be clarified further for a better understanding. MethodsThe methodology, especially regarding categorizing the phenotypes has been reviewed and comments have been added for better understanding of their study. ResultsTo better understand novel results of their study, several points have to be considered, which include cluster analysis and categorization according to symptomatic presentations. ConclusionsPhenotyping by either etiologies or covariates and by syndromic presentations is not easy. Due to the aging features, multiple factors are needed during interpretation of the categorized phenotypes. Considering the advantage of the clinical benefit from the patient's viewpoint, categorization of syndromic symptomatic presentation using multiple validated tools including patient-reported outcomes is needed.