Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Diagnostic Approaches and Investigations
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition in aging men, causing urinary symptoms due to prostate enlargement. Early diagnosis through clinical, laboratory, and imaging approaches is essential for management.
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: Diagnostic Approaches and Investigations
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that commonly affects aging men. This condition can lead to urinary symptoms that significantly impact quality of life.
Understanding BPH
BPH is characterized by the progressive enlargement of the prostate, leading to obstruction of the urinary tract. Symptoms include urinary hesitancy, frequency, weak stream, and incomplete bladder emptying.
Diagnostic Approaches
Diagnosis of BPH involves a combination of clinical evaluation, laboratory tests, and imaging studies.
Clinical Assessment
- Medical History: Evaluation of urinary symptoms and risk factors.
- Physical Examination: Digital rectal examination (DRE) to assess prostate size and texture.
Laboratory Investigations
- Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA): Helps rule out prostate cancer.
- Urinalysis: Detects infection or hematuria.
Imaging Studies
- Ultrasound: Assesses prostate volume and residual urine.
- Urodynamic Testing: Evaluates bladder function.
Conclusion
Early diagnosis of BPH is crucial for effective management. A combination of clinical assessment, laboratory tests, and imaging helps in accurate diagnosis, leading to appropriate therapeutic interventions.
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