Intragranular activation of bladder mast cells and their association with nerve processes in interstitial cystitis

Abstract

These findings indicate that the symptoms of IC may depend on an imbalance of the relative number of oestrogen receptors (ORs) to PRs on bladder MCs resulting in a 'progesterone deficient' state. This possibility is strengthened by demonstration that oestradiol augments the secretion of MC histamine in response to the neuropeptide substance P, which is pro-inflammatory, nociceptive and overexpressed in bladders with IC. Intragranular activation of bladder MCs is a characteristic pathological finding in patients with IC. The lack of extensive degranulation, typically seen in anaphylaxis, may indicate a unique mode of stimulation and/or differential release of mediators.