Medical Treatment of BPH: An Update on Results

Abstract

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition in older men, resulting in chronic lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) that are bothersome and cause impaired physiological and functional well-being and interference with activities of daily living. BPH is rarely life-threatening, but it can lead to acute urological problems, for example acute urinary retention (AUR). The clinical manifestations of BPH include LUTS, poor bladder emptying, urinary retention, detrusor instability, urinary tract infection, hematuria, and renal insufficiency. Surgery remains the most effective treatment for complicated or severe symptomatic BPH, especially where medical treatment has failed. Its invasive nature and potential side-effects have led to the development of potentially less traumatic techniques and the widespread adoption of medical strategies. Medical management continues to evolve and refinements are aimed at achieving reduced frequency of dosage and achieving minimal side-effects, while maintaining clinical efficacy. In the current era of male health promotion the number of men who seek and receive treatment for uncomplicated BPH continues to rise. Thus the medical management of BPH is likely to continue playing an important role in the future.