ABSTRACT
The purpose of a classification system is communication. The value of grouping and interrelating concepts and facts into an organizational structure can be measured by the ability of the final product to provide a logical framework for introducing new theories, scientific findings, and clinical observations into the existing knowledge. In addition, the system should act as a useful clinical tool for diagnosing and treating disease. Rather than create new areas of contention, a classification system that is proposed for general use should ideally incorporate ideas and resolve conflicts. The attempt to devise an all inclusive system that completely describes lower urinary tract (LUT) function and dysfunction and the decision to adopt this single classification system would certainly be ideal, but is confounded by difficulties in agreement concerning construct and the standardization of terminology.
