Urinary retention can be caused by both non-neurogenic and neurogenic etiologies.

• A. False
• B. Not applicable
• C. True
• D. Both are false

Answer: (C)

Urinary retention can arise from both neurogenic and non-neurogenic causes, reflecting the need for intact neural control and a clear urinary outflow. The bladder’s ability to empty depends on a coordinated reflex: signals from the brain and spinal cord control the detrusor muscle’s contraction and the urethral sphincter’s relaxation. If that neural control is disrupted anywhere along the pathway—such as from spinal cord injury, stroke, multiple sclerosis, or diabetic autonomic neuropathy—detrusor contraction may be weak or disordered, or the sphincter may not relax properly, leading to retention (neurogenic).

On the other hand, retention can occur without nerve injury when there is a mechanical or functional blockage or other non-neural factor. Examples include enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia) or urethral stricture causing outflow obstruction, medications that reduce bladder contractions (like anticholinergics or certain opioids), or postoperative states where bladder function is temporarily impaired. These non-neurogenic mechanisms prevent proper emptying even though the nervous system pathways themselves are intact.

Because retention can result from either neurogenic disruption or non-neurogenic factors, the statement is true.