Signs and Tests

A digital rectal exam (health care provider inserts a finger into the rectum to feel the size of the prostate gland) may reveal an enlarged, soft prostate.

• Urine flow rate may be measured (men with BPH usually have a rate less than 15 ml per second).
• Post-void residual urine (the amount of urine left in bladder after urination) may be measured.
• Pressure flow studies will measure the pressure in the bladder as you urinate.
• An IVP (an x-ray study) may be done to confirm the diagnosis or look for blockage.
• Urinalysis may be done to check for blood or infection.
• Urine culture may be used to evaluate for infection.
• Voiding cystourethrogram (another x-ray study) may be performed.
• Prostatic-specific antigen (PSA) blood test in patients over 50 years of age or those at increased risk of prostate cancer.
• Cystoscopy may be performed to visualize the prostate and bladder if surgery is required.

Additionally, you may be asked to complete a self-screening form to evaluate the severity of your symptoms and the impact on your daily life. Your score on the screening tool may be compared to past records to evaluate progression of the disease.

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