benign prostatic hypertrophy

Last edited 03/2021 and last reviewed 07/2021

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a histological diagnosis characterised by non-malignant proliferative process of the prostatic stromal cells.

  • is considered as the commonest benign neoplasm in males
  • commonly seen in older men and may even be regarded as a natural part of ageing.
  • it is unusual before 50 years of age (2).

Transition zone of the prostrate is affected by BPH which results in compression of the prostatic urethra and restriction of flow out of the bladder.

Benign prostatic obstruction (BPO) is a main aetiology for aging men to experience LUTS and it differs from benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and benign prostatice nlargement (BPE)

BPE refers to an increase in volume of theprostate due to BPH. BPO is an obstruction that results from BPE,which can be confirmed by pressure flow studies, or be highlysuspected from flow rates and if the gland is enlarged (3).

Many patients are asymptomatic or have mild disease. Only 20% of those over 60 years have disease sufficiently severe to warrant surgery.

The cause of the hyperplasia is uncertain. Hormonal and neoplastic explanations have been proposed. The condition is not thought to be premalignant.

BPH Chapter contributor (23/12/18):

  • Maya Anatoly Harris
  • Consultant Urologist at South Warwickshire NHS Foundation Trust

Reference:

Related pages:

epidemiology

aetiology

pathology

clinical features

clinical diagnosis

investigations

treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia

complications

referral criteria from primary care - prostatism