potassium stimulation test

Introduction

Tests bladder for sensitivity to K+

Indications

• workup for interstitial cystitis

Procedure

• drain bladder & insert small urethral catheter
• instill 40 mL H2O into bladder over 2-3 minutes
• rank urgency (0-5), pain (0-5)
• drain bladder
• instill 40 mL 0.4 M KCl
  • if immediate pain, wash bladder with 60 mL H2O, instill anesthetic*, test is positive
• if no reaction, allow remain for 5 minutes
• rank urgency (0-5), pain (0-5)
• void bladder
• if positive test, wash bladder with 60 mL H2O, instill anesthetic*, test is positive

* anesthetic: 1:1 solution of bupivacaine 0.5% % lidocaine jelly 2%

More general terms

• clinical procedure