Detection of urinary tract obstruction by nerve growth factor measurement in urine

摘要

The method of detecting lower urinary tract disease is disclosed through the comparison of the concentration of a neurotrophic factor present in a urine specimen in comparison with a predetermined normal concentration. Nerve growth factor, having a concentration of approximately less than 8 picograms per milliliter is the preferred factor. The concentration of nerve growth factor in the urine rises at the onset of the lower urinary tract disease and decreases as said disease progresses. Nerve growth factor production and nerve growth is inhibited by administering the Ca++ channel blockers, verapamil or diltiazem.