Prostate Hypertrophy

DIAGNOSIS OF BPH

In this case, the medical examination involves performing an abdominal physical examination and a rectal examination, which gives an idea of the volume of the prostate gland and highlights the possible presence of suspicious nodules. The patient is also given a questionnaire, called the I-PSS, which provides guidance on the severity of the symptoms. It is then necessary to prescribe some further tests, such as a urine test with possible urine culture, PSA (prostate-specific antigen) testing, kidney function tests and a flowmetry test (a test that measures the speed of urinary flow during urination, simply by urinating into a special instrument called a flowmeter). Depending on clinical and therapeutic needs, a transrectal prostate ultrasound, an abdominal ultrasound, and a urodynamic test with pressure/flow curve may also be required.

One of the most common complications of BPH is an increased risk of urinary tract infections due to urine retention in the bladder. There are two types of treatment: medical and surgical. Medical therapy uses drugs to relieve symptoms, such as alpha-blockers. These relax the muscles of the prostate and bladder neck, thereby increasing urinary flow. In addition to alpha blockers, 5α-reductase inhibitors are also used. Combination therapy with alpha blockers and 5α-reductase inhibitors has been shown to drastically reduce prostate volume. If medical treatment fails, surgical treatment may be necessary. This involves removing part of the prostate through the urethra. It is important not to ignore the first signs of a possible urinary tract disorder and, if symptoms persist, it is advisable to seek medical advice. Early diagnosis of the cause of the disorder allows prompt intervention to prevent or at least slow down the progression of the disease to a more serious condition, which could have repercussions on the individual’s personal and social life.

BPH is not a tumour, nor is it an early stage of cancer.