Urology>>>>>Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) and Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS)
Question 2#

Which of the following is TRUE with respect to BPH?

A. Is a histological process predominantly characterised by benign prostatic hypertrophy
B. Always causes lower urinary tract symptoms
C. May not produce bladder outlet obstruction
D. Requires the absence of androgens
E. Is always a progressive disease

Correct Answer is C

Comment:

Answer C

Benign prostatic hyperplasia is a histological process characterised by an increase in the number of epithelial and stromal cells in the periurethral area of the prostate. New gland formation is usually only seen in the foetus, which has led to the theory of ‘embryonic reawakening’. The increase in cell number may be due to cellular proliferation or apoptosis or a combination of the two. The development of BPH requires androgens during prostate development, puberty and aging. Patients castrated prior to puberty do not develop BPH. Hald’s 3-ring diagram originally described the relationship between hyperplasia, prostatism and obstruction. It has now been modified to include the relationship between LUTS, BPE and BOO: only 25%–50% of men with BPH have LUTS.