Interstitial cystitis (also called painful bladder syndrome, or chronic pelvic pain syndrome) is a common condition with no known cure. It is estimated that every 15 seconds, a person in the USA is diagnosed with interstitial cystitis. Studies have suggested that the condition may be genetic and passed down (or inherited) from one generation to the next.

In this study we are comparing different families' samples and medical information to determine which genetic factors may play a role in interstitial cystitis. We are enrolling families and individuals with IC/PBS/CPPS and their family members (both symptomatic and asymptomatic family members)

To fully describe the phenotype of interstitial cystitis (IC)/painful bladder syndrome (PBS)/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS), in adults and children, and to correlate the phenotypic information to the genotypic findings utilizing linkage analysis and candidate gene studies. A US cohort and a Bulgarian cohort will be recruited. Both individuals and families with IC/PBS/CPPS symptoms will be recruited to give a DNA and urine sample.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Males and females of any age, probands must be age 8-adult
• Urinary frequency - more than 1X/hour, and/or
• Dysuria, and/or
• Pelvic, suprapubic, or abdominal pain - for 3 months or longer
• Previously normal voiding pattern ( normal retrograde voiding cystourethrogram if done)
• Nocturia
• Normal urinary stream (by history)
• No evidence of active bacterial UTI (no pyuria & negative urinary culture for last 3 months)
• First degree relative of someone with above symptoms

Exclusion Criteria:

• Major structural/anatomical urinary tract abnormalities by ultrasound
• Underlying inborn conditions affecting the urinary tract
• Severe Constipation