Purpose of review: In this review, the current literature of imaging of bladder pain syndrome and interstitial cystitis (BPS/IC) will be addressed. Topics include BPS/IC, cystoscopy, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance image (MRI).
Recent findings: There are no randomized clinical trials on imaging of BPS/IC. Recently, contrast-enhanced MRI could detect the brain alterations and the changes in bladder permeability, and detection of the latter is enhanced by intravesical injection of contrast agents.
Summary: MRI could advance the understanding of pathological changes in the brain and the bladder of BPS/IC patients. Especially, contrast-enhanced MRI has a potential to become a diagnostic tool although more evidences are necessary for clarifying the efficacy.
Keywords: Bladder pain syndrome; Computed tomography; Interstitial cystitis; Magnetic resonance imaging.