Open Access

ARTICLE

A practical primary care approach to lower urinary tract symptoms caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH-LUTS)

Matt T. Rosenberg¹, Erik S. Witt¹, Martin Miner², Jack Barkin³

1 Mid Michigan Health Centers, Jackson, Michigan, USA
2 Departments of Family Medicine and Urology, Miriam Hospital, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
3 Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Humber River Regional Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Address correspondence to Dr. Matt T. Rosenberg, Mid Michigan Health Centers, 214 N West Avenue, Jackson, MI 49201 USA

Canadian Journal of Urology 2014, 21(Suppl.3), 12-24.

Abstract

In the primary care office the evaluation of prostate related lower urinary tract symptoms (BPH-LUTS) in the male can be confusing. Are the symptoms, in fact, from the prostate or is there another etiology such as the bladder or medical conditions causing or contributing to the problems? If the cause is the prostate, how does the physician choose from the multitude of available treatment options and when is referral appropriate? The prevalence of BPH-LUTS is high and commonly encountered by the primary care physician (PCP). An understanding of the normal prostate is essential to identifying the patient when symptoms do occur. Then the evaluation and treatment of the affected patient can occur effectively and efficiently in the PCP setting.
In this article we present the background information needed for the PCP to provide this evaluation of the patient with BPH-LUTS. We explain the various treatment options that are best suited for the individual which are based on symptom severity, sexual dysfunction and risk of progression. We also identify follow up parameters and reasons for referral.

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