Pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the overactive bladder.

Overactive bladder is a heterogenous condition, with several phenotypes, and a complex pathophysiology. The principal pathophysiological mechanisms for the development of OAB are based on the urotheliogenic, myogenic, neurogenic and urethrogenic theories. The most well-described contributors to these pathophysiological mechanisms are metabolic syndrome, sex hormone deficiency, altered urinary microbiota, functional gastrointestinal disorders, affective disorders, autonomic nervous system dysfunction, and bladder outflow obstruction. This review describes the normal physiology of the lower urinary tract, and summaries the pathophysiological mechanisms behind overactive bladder.