Interstitial cystitis is a rare chronic debilitating condition predominantly affecting middle-aged women. The diagnosis, made from the combination of symptoms, cystoscopic findings and bladder biopsies, is often delayed because GPs are often unaware of the condition. The precise aetiology remains obscure and it is clear that there is much research that needs to be undertaken to shed any light on the various current aetiological theories. There is a wide assortment of therapies already available and many more currently under trial. Until there is further progress in the pathogenesis of IC, it seems unlikely that non-operative treatment will consist of anything but palliation. The only potential cures currently available are cystectomy and urinary diversion or surgical replacement of the bladder by enterocystoplasty.