[Androgen deprivation in benign prostatic hypertrophy]

Benign prostatic hypertrophy is the cause of urinary outflow obstruction in the majority of men older than 50 years. Even if the pathophysiology of BPH is multifactorial, its development needs testicular androgens and aging. Androgen deprivation is the only approach that may reduce the hyperplastic state. This article reviews the endocrine aspect of BPH and the various hormonal treatment strategies, concerning clinical efficacy and side effects.