Pain of urogenital origin

Chronic nonmalignant pain syndromes (longer than 6 months duration) of urogenital origin are well described but poorly understood focal pain syndromes. Pain in these areas of the body is usually very embarrassing for the male and female patient, who may be afraid to discuss his or her symptoms with family members, friends, and health care providers. Except in those cases in which a specific secondary cause can be identified, the etiology of chronic urogenital pain often remains unknown. Currently available treatment options are empirical only. Although cures are uncommon, some pain relief can be provided to almost all patients using currently available treatment strategies. Better knowledge of the underlying pathophysiologic mechanisms of chronic urogenital pain is needed to develop treatment strategies specifically targeted against the underlying mechanisms.