Benign prostatic hyperplasia. Its natural history, epidemiologic characteristics, and surgical treatment

Benign prostatic hyperplasia is a nonmalignant enlargement of the prostate that is due to both epithelial and stromal hyperplasia. Although the exact origin of this condition is not well defined, it is thought to arise as microscopic nodules in the periurethral tissue of the prostate gland as early as the late '20s. With advancing age and the presence of androgens, this histologically identifiable hyperplastic tissue progresses to a macroscopic state, which is a palpably enlarged prostate. This enlarged prostate causes clinically significant obstruction of the bladder outlet in many men, necessitating therapeutic intervention. Currently, prostatectomy is the standard treatment with successful long-term results. Nevertheless, much information has become available recently on its indications, outcomes, associated morbidity and mortality, and effect on quality of life. Because of these findings as well as the rising healthcare costs and the desire among patients to avoid surgery if possible, there is much enthusiasm for developing less expensive, less invasive, but effective treatments for symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia. To appreciate the tremendous advances being made with regard to the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia, it is necessary to have a complete understanding of the disease process itself and its traditional therapies. This clinical report provides a comprehensive review of the natural history, epidemiologic characteristics, and outcomes of both open and transurethral surgery for benign prostatic hyperplasia.