Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia - Diagnosis

Diagnosis

Rectal examination (palpation of the prostate through the rectum) may reveal a markedly enlarged prostate, usually affecting the middle lobe.

Often, blood tests are performed to rule out prostatic malignancy: Elevated prostate specific antigen (PSA) levels needs further investigations such as reinterpretation of PSA results, in terms of PSA density and PSA free percentage, rectal examination and transrectal ultrasonography. These combined measures can provide early detection.

Ultrasound examination of the testicles, prostate, and kidneys is often performed, again to rule out malignancy and hydronephrosis.

Screening and diagnostic procedures for BPH are similar to those used for prostate cancer. Some signs to look for include:

• Weak urinary stream
• Prolonged emptying of the bladder
• Abdominal straining
• Hesitancy
• Irregular need to urinate
• Incomplete bladder emptying
• Post-urination dribble
• Irritation during urination
• Frequent urination
• Nocturia (need to urinate during the night)
• Urgency
• Incontinence (involuntary leakage of urine)
• Bladder pain
• Dysuria (painful urination)
• Problems in ejaculation