Voiding dysfunction in the female patient: is the "syndrome" paradigm valid?

Voiding dysfunction in the female patient significantly affects the patient's quality of life. The condition is poorly understood, has varied etiology and clinical presentation, and lacks standard definitions with no consensus on diagnostic criteria. It consists of a constellation of symptoms involving both phases of the micturition cycle. Appropriate diagnosis and treatment of female lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) is of paramount importance. However, the differentiation of female LUTS into various syndromes is currently controversial. This article comprehensively reviews the commonly encountered female non-neurogenic LUTS (overactive bladder, interstitial cystitis, and painful bladder syndrome); discusses the contemporary management of these syndromes; and emphasizes a syndromic approach to the condition.