 The Potassium Chloride Sensitivity test consists of instilling 2 sterile solutions of sodium chloride and potassium chloride, known chemically as KCl, into the bladder via a urethral catheter which your nurse or consultant will insert. The test can take up to 30-40 minutes. It has been suggested for two uses:
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| Is the KCL Test an Accurate Diagnostic Test? |
| The KCl Sensitivity Test was originally designed as a possible diagnostic test for Interstitial Cystitis. However, there are questions about the accuracy of this test. One study found the KCl sensitivity test to be 75 percent accurate, which means that if 100 IC patients are given this test, only 75 of these patients will be diagnosed accurately. Another study found the test to be 60 percent accurate in the diagnosis of IC. |
| Is the KCL Test an Accurate Predictive Test? |
| The KCl Sensitivity Test is being evaluated as a predictive test. The test is thought to be able to gauge the permeability of the glycosaminoglycans (GAG) or protective layer of the bladder, which may be defective in some IC patients. Some investigators believe that IC patients who respond positively to the test will be more likely to be helped by a specific class of IC treatments, the mucosal surface protectants (or heparinoids), such as oral Elmiron or Cystistat. |
| Is the Test Painful? |
| During the test, patients are asked to report the degree of severity of pain and urgency that they may experience while the KCl solution is in the bladder. This pain response may be present not only during, but after the test, and can sometimes last as long as days to weeks following the procedure. And, it may be difficult for patients to accurately quantify an increase in pain when they may already be in considerable pain prior to administration of the test. It has been suggested that a sodium chloride flush and local anesthetic gel such as Instilla gel be instilled into the bladder immediately after the KCl Sensitivity Test, so that the potential for a painful flare-up is reduced. |
| Can the Test be Misinterpreted? |
The KCl Sensitivity Test is not specific for IC. Patients with acute urinary tract infection, radiation cystitis, other inflammatory conditions of the bladder, and those receiving chemotherapy for bladder cancer may also have a positive response to the test. Also, the test may be negative, even if a patient has IC, if the patient:
If you have any concerns or questions about this test please contact: Michelle O’Brien, Your Consultant Urologist. |
