Interstitial cystitis is a long-term (chronic) inflammation of
the bladder wall. Cystitis - interstitial; IC Causes, incidence,
and risk factors Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a painful
condition due to inflammation of the tissues of the bladder
wall. The cause is unknown. The condition is usually diagnosed
by ruling out other conditions (such as sexually transmitted
disease, bladder cancer, and bladder infections). IC is
frequently misdiagnosed as a urinary tract infection. Patients
often go years without a correct diagnosis. On average, there is
about a 4-year delay between the time the first symptoms occur
and the diagnosis is made. The condition generally occurs around
age 30 to 40, although it has been reported in younger people.
Women are 10 times more likely to have IC than men. Signs and
tests Diagnosis is made by ruling out other causes. Tests
include: There is no cure for IC, and there are no standard or
consistently effective treatments. Results vary from person to
person. As long as the cause is un