Screening Tests
The digital rectal exam is the only screening test for BPH. This involves your doctor inserting a gloved finger into the lower rectum. From here, your doctor can estimate the size of your prostate, identify some (but not all) cancers, and find anal diseases.
Screening Guidelines
There are no guidelines for screening for BPH.
References:
American Urological Association Practice Guidelines Committee. AUA guideline on management of benign prostatic hyperplasia. J Urol. 2003;170:530-547.
Burnett AL, Wein AJ. Benign prostatic hyperplasia in primary care: what you need to know. J Urol. 2006;175:S19-24.
Dull, P, Reagan RW Jr, Bahnson RR. Managing benign prostatic hyperplasia. Am Fam Physician. 2002;66:87-88.
National Kidney Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse website. Available at: http://kidney.niddk.nih.gov/.
Last reviewed April 2007 by David Juan, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
