The source of urinary nitrosamines in patients with enterocystoplasties.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the factors influencing urinary nitrosamine production in patients with enterocystoplasties. PATIENTS, SUBJECTS AND METHODS: The study comprised 100 patients with an enterocystoplasty, 20 patients with interstitial cystitis, 30 with infective cystitis and 120 control subjects drawn from hospital staff and out-patients. Urinary nitrosamine levels were measured and the urine samples cultured for microorganisms. RESULTS: Nitrosamine levels were significantly higher only in patients with enterocystoplasties who also had higher urinary white cell counts or significant bacteriuria. CONCLUSION: Patients with an enterocystoplasty and significant bacteriuria are most at risk from potential nitrosamine-induced epithelial injury.