Diagnosis and treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms in the elderly by general practitioners

Abstract

We investigated the diagnosis and treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) by general practitioners (GPs) according to the Practical Manual for LUTS Evaluation and Treatment in the Elderly For GPs. Using the manual, 14 GPs determined LUTS severity using the International Prostate Symptom Score, Quality of Life Index, post-void residual urine volume and the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form, then evaluated utilization of the frequency volume charts and other examinations to treat LUTS and assessed treatment effectiveness. This study included 52 men (aged 71 +/- 9 years) and 37 women (73 +/- 9). Voiding symptoms were more frequent in men but storage symptoms occurred similarly in both sexes. The overall severities of LUTS were similar between sexes. Of 36 men and 27 women who were treated, water restriction for polyuria and nocturnal polyuria was recommended for 17 men and 14 women, bladder training for six women, and pelvic floor exercise for three men and 16 women as behavioral therapy. Of 27 men and 25 women whose treatment effectiveness was assessed by GPs, effectiveness was judged as "fairly good" or greater in 20 men (74%) and 23 women (92%). Eleven men (40%) and 20 women (80%) were satisfied with their treatment. It is suggested that GPs can provide high-quality LUTS practice when they follow the manual and use the recommended tools for evaluation and monitoring.