Evolving Concepts in the Treatment of Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome: A Bibliometric Analysis

Objective: To analyze global research trends, collaborative networks, and thematic evolution in interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) treatment literature over the past decade using comprehensive bibliometric methods.

Methods: A bibliometric analysis was conducted using the Web of Science Core Collection database for publications from January 1, 2016, to December 31, 2025. The search strategy employed Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms related to IC/BPS and treatment modalities. Bibliometric indicators including publication trends, citation patterns, international collaborations, and thematic evolution were analyzed using VOSviewer and Bibliometrix R package. Simple linear regression analysis was performed to assess temporal trends in research output.

Results: A total of 1,456 publications (1,083 original articles and 373 reviews) were identified, generating 26,503 citations. Annual publication output demonstrated a statistically significant upward trend (R² = 0.569, p = 0.011), increasing from 113 publications in 2016 to 165 in 2025, with a peak of 196 publications in 2022. The United States dominated research output (79 documents) and total citations (1,746), while Belgium (39.52 citations/document) and Sweden (45.5 citations/document) showed the highest citation impact relative to publication volume. The journal Neurourology and Urodynamics published the most articles (68), whereas Journal of Urology accumulated the highest total citations (1,165). Co-occurrence analysis revealed a paradigm shift from bladder-centric approaches (intravesical therapy, hydrodistension) toward neurobiological mechanisms (central sensitization, chronic pain, neuroinflammation) and personalized medicine approaches (phenotyping, biomarkers). International collaboration analysis identified strong research networks, particularly among USA-UK-Canada and European consortia.

Conclusions: This bibliometric analysis reveals sustained growth and evolving focus in IC/BPS research over the past decade. The field is transitioning from traditional bladder-centric interventions toward comprehensive neurobiological understanding and phenotype-directed therapies. Geographic disparities in research productivity highlight the need for enhanced global collaboration. The significant increase in publications addressing central mechanisms and multidisciplinary approaches reflects maturation of the field and provides valuable insights for future research priorities and funding allocation.