Effect of benzalkonium chloride on urinary mucus concentration following augmentation ileocystoplasty in mice

ABSTRACT

Ileocystoplasty is a popular technique used for treatment of low-capacity urinary bladders. One of its major down sides is the ability of the intestinal mucosa to secrete mucous, with its related urinary complications. Benzalkonium chloride is an irreversible ganglion blocker. Its local application to the augmenting ileal patch could reduce the acetyl choline-mediated mucus secretion. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of benzalkonium chloride on urinary mucus concentration following augmentation ileocystoplasty in mice. Ileocystoplasty was performed experimentally in a group of albino mice, benzalkonium chloride was applied locally to the ileal patch in half of them. Twenty survivors from each group were evaluated by 24-hours urine collection and mucus concentration assessment. Histopathological evaluation of the urinary bladders was carried out three weeks later. In the benzalkonium group, the mean urinary mucous concentration was significantly lower than the control group [P<0.001]. In the former group, the histopathological examination revealed no reactions that might have resulted from benzalkonium application, together with a marked reduction in the mucus secretion activities in all specimens. Benzalkonium chloride might be used to reduce the incidence of mucus-related complications in ileocystoplasty. Its use in humans, as well as the adverse effects due to systemic absorption is still to be investigated