University of Wisconsin–Madison

Nicole De Nisco, PhD Editorial – D-Mannose for rUTI Management

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Despite the mixed messaging about the efficacy of D-Mannose in the management of uncomplicated recurrent UTIs, fervent support remains.
Nicole De Nisco, PhD

Nicole De Nisco, PhD, leader of the CAIRIBU Urobiome Research Interest Group, recently published an editorial in the Journal of Urology Open Plus titled “Is D-Mannose Dead in the Water or Is It Time to Take a Deeper Dive?”.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common within women, and more than 40% of women experience recurrent UTIs (rUTIs). With antibiotic resistance becoming a growing concern, new prevention methods are necessary. 

In the editorial, Dr. De Nisco argues that existing evidence on D-Mannose is incomplete. She cites previously conducted randomized placebo-controlled trials that yielded conflicting results with respect to the efficacy of D-Mannose, noting that limitations of these studies included small sample sizes, varying study criteria, compliance differences, shortened follow-up time, and different outcome measures.

Dr. De Nisco argues that we cannot yet rule out D-Mannose based on the limited available information. She calls for more rigorous investigation, including identifying subpopulations who may reap the most benefits from this treatment and exploring mechanisms of action for D-Mannose in humans. Until further investigation is carried out, we should not rule out the potential of D-Mannose as a low-risk intervention to decrease the likelihood of rUTIs.