Dr. J. Quentin Clemens, MD, MSCI, recently shared insights during his presentation at the 2025 Desai Sethi Urology Institute’s Urology on the Beach meeting, focusing on the importance of personalized treatment for interstitial cystitis (IC). Dr. Clemens, who serves as the Edward J. McGuire Professor of Urology and the program director for the Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery Fellowship at the University of Michigan, discussed how an individualized approach to IC therapy could improve patient outcomes.
In his talk, Dr. Clemens acknowledged the challenges of tailoring IC treatments, noting that many cases rely on a process of elimination. He explained that the treatment approach often begins with understanding which therapies patients have already attempted to avoid unnecessary repetition, followed by a discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of various options. However, Dr. Clemens pointed out that there are specific instances where personalized treatment can be more directly implemented.
One notable example he highlighted was the presence of Hunner lesions, a condition that requires a distinct treatment strategy. Identifying these lesions is crucial because they require targeted treatment, often in combination with oral cyclosporine, to effectively manage symptoms.
Dr. Clemens also emphasized the role of pelvic muscle tenderness in IC patients. He explained that tenderness in the pelvic muscles is a common feature in many pelvic pain disorders. For patients who report tenderness that directly correlates with their symptoms, pelvic floor physical therapy can provide significant relief. Referring such patients for physical therapy is a clear intervention that can improve their quality of life.
In conclusion, while personalized approaches to IC therapy are not always possible, Dr. Clemens highlighted key areas—such as identifying Hunner lesions and addressing pelvic muscle tenderness—where tailored interventions can be highly beneficial for patients.
Related topics:
What Happens if a Varicocele Bursts?
