The Standardisation of Terminology in Lower Urinary Tract Function: Report from the Standardisation Sub-committee of the International Continence Society

T report presents definitions of the symptoms, signs, urodynamic observations and conditions associated with lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) and urodynamic studies (UDS), for use in all patient groups from children to the elderly. The definitions restate or update those presented in previous International Continence Society Standardisation of Terminology reports1–7 and published on Urethral Function8 and Nocturia.9 The published ICS report on the technical aspects of urodynamic equipment10 is complemented by the new ICS report on urodynamic practice.11 In addition, there are four published ICS outcome reports.12–15 New or changed definitions are all indicated; however, recommendations concerning technique are not included in the main text of this report. The definitions have been written to be compatible with the WHO publication ICIDH-2 (International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health) published in 2001 and ICD10, the International Classification of Diseases.16 As far as possible, the definitions are descriptive of observations, without implying underlying assumptions that may later prove to be incorrect or incomplete. By following this principle, the International Continence Society (ICS) aims to facilitate comparison of results and enable effective communication by investigators who use urodynamic methods. This report restates the ICS principle that symptoms, signs and conditions are separate categories and adds a category of urodynamic observations. In addition, terminology related to therapies is included.3 When a reference is made to the whole anatomical organ the vesica urinaria, the correct term is the bladder. When the smooth muscle structure known as the m. detrusor urinae is being discussed, then the correct term is detrusor. It is suggested that acknowledgement of these standards in written publications be indicated by a footnote to the section “Methods and Materials” or its equivalent, to read as follows: “Methods, definitions and units conform to the standards recommended by the International Continence Society, except where specifically noted”. The report covers the following areas: