A Practical Approach for Primary Care Practitioners to Evaluate and Manage Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms and Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia.

Background: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are common clinical encounters for most primary care practitioners (PCPs). More than 50% of men aged > 50 years will develop significant lower urinary tract symptoms. Managing these symptoms can be complicated and requires an informed discussion between the PCP and the patient. This article provides a comprehensive review for PCPs regarding the evaluation and management of LUTS in men and when to consider a urology referral.

Observations: Over the past 3 decades, medications have become the most common BPH and LUTS therapy, but recently, newer minimally invasive surgeries have challenged this paradigm. PCPs are in a unique position to help many patients who present with early stage LUTS.

Conclusions: A clear understanding of the available treatment options will help PCPs counsel patients appropriately about lifestyle modification, medications, and surgical treatment options for their symptoms.