Proposing the "Continuum of UTI" for a Nuanced Approach to Diagnosis and Management of Urinary Tract Infections

PURPOSE

Patients with suspected UTIs are categorized into 3 clinical phenotypes based on current guidelines: no UTI, asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB), or UTI. However, all patients may not fit neatly into these groups. Our objective was to characterize clinical presentations of patients who receive urine tests using the "continuum of UTI" approach.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study of a random sample of adult noncatheterized inpatient and emergency department encounters with paired urinalysis and urine cultures from 5 hospitals in 3 states between January 01, 2017, and December 31, 2019. Trained abstractors collected clinical (eg, symptom) and demographic data. A focus group discussion with multidisciplinary experts was conducted to define the continuum of UTI, a 5-level classification scheme that includes 2 new categories: lower urinary tract symptoms/other urologic symptoms and bacteriuria of unclear significance. The newly defined continuum of UTI categories were compared to the current UTI classification scheme.

RESULTS

Of 220,531 encounters, 3392 randomly selected encounters were reviewed. Based on the current classification scheme, 32.1% (n = 704) had ASB and 53% (n = 1614) did not have a UTI. When applying the continuum of UTI categories, 68% of patients (n = 478) with ASB were reclassified as bacteriuria of unclear significance and 29% of patients (n = 467) with "no UTI" were reclassified to lower urinary tract symptoms/other urologic symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest the need to reframe our conceptual model of UTI vs ASB to reflect the full spectrum of clinical presentations, acknowledge the diagnostic uncertainty faced by frontline clinicians, and promote a nuanced approach to diagnosis and management of UTIs.

Early investigational agents for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia'

INTRODUCTION

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), as a clinical entity that affects many people, has always been in the forefront of interest among researchers, pharmaceutical companies, and physicians. Patients with BPH exhibit a diverse range of symptoms, while current treatment options can occasionally cause adverse events. All the aforementioned have led to an increased demand for more effective treatment options.

AREAS COVERED

This review summarizes the outcomes of new medications used in a pre-clinical and clinical setting for the management of male lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS)/BPH and provides information about ongoing trials and future directions in the management of this condition. More specifically, sheds light upon drug categories, such as reductase‑adrenoceptor antagonists, drugs interfering with the nitric oxide (NO)/cyclic guanosine monophosphate (GMP) signaling pathway, onabotulinumtoxinA, vitamin D3 (calcitriol) analogues, selective cannabinoid (CB) receptor agonists, talaporfin sodium, inhibitor of transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1), drugs targeting the hormonal control of the prostate, phytotherapy, and many more.

EXPERT OPINION

Clinical trials are being conducted on a number of new medications that may emerge as effective therapeutic alternatives in the coming years.

The efficacy and safety of prostatic urethral lift as a minimally invasive therapeutic modality to treat lower urinary tract symptoms while maintaining sexual function in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is prevalent among elderly men, necessitating focused attention. The Prostatic Urethral Lift (PUL) procedure, a minimally invasive intervention, has emerged as a promising option for BPH management. It has shown remarkable results in ameliorating lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), enhancing quality of life, and preserving sexual function. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of PUL in BPH patients.

METHODS

Key databases (MEDLINE, Cochrane CENTRAL, ScienceDirect, EBSCO, Google Scholar) were systematically searched using pertinent terms related to PUL and BPH. Following the PRISMA checklist, we considered only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) from 2013 to 2023. The assessment focused on LUTS, quality of life, sexual function, and adverse events within three months. Follow-up post-treatment mean values compared with controls (Sham) and the improvement from baseline to post-treatment follow-up duration were considered. Statistical analysis and risk of bias evaluation were conducted using Review Manager 5.4.1, presenting results as difference of mean values (MD) and risk ratios (RR).

RESULTS

A meta-analysis with a Random Effects Model of 7 RCTs involving 378 confirmed BPH patients demonstrated significant improvements in the PUL arm including International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) (MD 5.51, p<0.0001), maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax) (MD 2.13, p=0.0001), BPH Impact Index (BPHII) (MD 2.14, p=0.0001), and IPSS-QoL (MD 1.50, p<0.0001), without significant increase of adverse events (RR 1.51; p=0.50). Positive outcomes were observed in sexual function variables and post-void residual measurements when post-treatment values were compared to baseline.

CONCLUSIONS

PUL holds advantages over control interventions, providing encouraging prospects for BPH management. This study underscores the need for further exploration of PUL's efficacy and safety in BPH patients.

[Practical use of Adenoprosin in combination therapy in men with lower urinary tract symptoms]

AIM

The aim of the observational cohort study is to study and evaluate the efficiency of the drug Adenoprosin in combination with other drugs in comparison with monotherapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data from 6,442 patients at 221 medical institutions in 39 cities from November 2020 to December 2022 were analyzed. The drug Adenoprosin in the form of rectal suppositories was prescribed as monotherapy in group I, while patients in group II received Adenoprosin in a combination with other drugs. The efficacy of treatment was assessed using uroflowmetry data, prostate volume, postvoid residual volume and validated scales (NIH-CPSI, IIEF-5, IPSS, QoL).

RESULTS

The diagnosis was validated in 6375 cases, including BPH (n=1498), chronic prostatitis (CP; n=3060), and in combination of both disorders (n=1817). A total of 3580 patients received Adenoprosin as monotherapy, while 2761 received combination therapy. In most cases, a combination therapy was prescribed in case of more severe disease. In patients with BPH, positive changes after treatment were noted in favor of group I according to change in postvoid residual volume (p<0.001) and prostate volume (p<0.001). Combination therapy demonstrated significant positive changes compared with monotherapy when assessing NIH-CPSI scores (p=0.005), IPSS scores (p<0.001) and the mean maximum urine flow rate (Qmax; p<0.001). Qmax increased significantly in both groups (from 14 ml/s to 17 ml/s in group I and from 12 ml/s to 14 ml/s in group II).

CONCLUSION

Treatment of BPH, CP and their combination is a complex clinical task. The multiple nature of complaints often dictates the need for simultaneous administration of two or more drugs. Combination therapy involves the use of multiple therapeutic strategies to treat different aspects of BPH and CP. In patients with BPH, a combination therapy has been shown to be more effective than monotherapy with either class of drugs, as it reduces the risk of disease progression, acute urinary retention, and the need for surgery. However, combination therapy should be considered on an individual basis, taking into account symptoms, prostate size and overall health. There is no universal treatment method for BPH suitable for any patient. The treatment strategy should be chosen individually, considering all medical and social factors. All of the above applies to a large extent to the treatment of CP and CP + BPH. According to our results, Adenoprosin demonstrated efficacy both as monotherapy and in combination with other traditional drugs in the treatment of men with lower urinary tract symptoms.

Safety and efficacy of an α1 -blocker plus mirabegron compared with an α1 -blocker plus antimuscarinic in men with lower urinary tract symptoms secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia and overactive bladder: A systematic review and network meta-analysis

AIM

Antimuscarinics and the β3-adrenoreceptor agonist, mirabegron, are commonly used for treating patients with overactive bladder (OAB) and α1 -adrenoreceptor antagonists (α1 -blockers) are the main pharmacological agents used for treating lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). As these conditions commonly occur together, the aim of this systematic review was to identify publications that compared the use of an α1 -blocker plus mirabegron with an α1 -blocker plus antimuscarinic in men with LUTS secondary to BPH and OAB. A meta-analysis was subsequently conducted to explore the safety and efficacy of these combinations.

METHODS

Included records had to be from a parallel-group, randomized clinical trial that was ≥8 weeks in duration. Participants were male with LUTS secondary to BPH and OAB. The indirect analyses that were identified compared an α1 -blocker plus OAB agent with an α1 -blocker plus placebo. The PubMed/Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online, the Excerpta Medica Database, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and the ClinicalTrials.gov registry were searched for relevant records up until March 5, 2020. Safety outcomes included incidences of overall treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) and urinary retention, postvoid residual volume, and maximum urinary flow (Qmax ). Primary efficacy outcomes were micturitions/day, incontinence episodes/day, and urgency episodes/day, and secondary outcomes were Overactive Bladder Symptom Score and International Prostate Symptom Score. A Bayesian network meta-analysis approach was used for the meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Out of a total of 1039 records identified, 24 were eligible for inclusion in the meta-analysis. There were no statistically significant differences between the α1 -blocker plus mirabegron and α1 -blocker plus antimuscarinic groups in terms of the comparisons identified for all the safety and efficacy analyses conducted. Numerically superior results were frequently observed for the α1 -blocker plus mirabegron group compared with the α1 -blocker plus antimuscarinic group for the safety parameters, including TEAEs, urinary retention, and Qmax . For some of the efficacy parameters, most notably micturitions/day, numerically superior results were noted for the α1 -blocker plus antimuscarinic group. Inconsistency in reporting and study variability were noted in the included records, which hindered data interpretation.

CONCLUSION

This systematic review and meta-analysis showed that an α1 -blocker plus mirabegron and an α1 -blocker plus antimuscarinic have similar safety and efficacy profiles in male patients with LUTS secondary to BPH and OAB. Patients may, therefore, benefit from the use of either combination within the clinical setting.

Single-dose Tadalafil Reduces Opening Urethral Pressure: A Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-controlled, Crossover Trial in Healthy Women

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Phosphodiesterase enzymes are widely distributed in female urogenital tissues. Yet, the understanding of their physiological roles and the impact of phosphodiesterase inhibitors on lower urinary tract symptoms in women remains limited. Current hypotheses are conflicting: one suggests that vasodilation might expand the periurethral vascular plexus, leading to increased urethral pressure, whereas the other proposes a relaxation of urethral musculature, resulting in decreased pressure. To further clarify this, we investigated the effect of tadalafil on the opening urethral pressure and voiding function in healthy women.

METHODS

We conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial involving 24 healthy women. Participants were randomly assigned to receive a single dose of tadalafil (40 mg) or placebo during their initial visit and then switched to the alternative treatment during their second visit. Opening urethral pressure was measured with urethral pressure reflectometry during both resting and squeezing conditions of the pelvic floor. Subsequently, voiding parameters were recorded.

RESULTS

Compared with placebo, a single dose of tadalafil significantly reduced opening urethral pressure during both resting (-6.8 cmH20; 95% confidence interval [CI], -11.8 to -1.9; p = 0.009) and squeezing conditions (-8.8 cmH20; 95% CI, -14.6 to -3.1; p = 0.005). Voiding parameters did not show significant differences (average flow rate: -0.8 ml/s [95% CI, -2.0 to 0.4; p = 0.2]; maximum flow rate: -1.7 ml/s [95% CI, -4.8 to 1.5; p = 0.3]).

CONCLUSIONS

A single dose of 40 mg tadalafil moderately reduced urethral pressure in healthy women, without affecting voiding parameters. The clinical implications of this are yet to be determined.

Testosterone replacement in men with sexual dysfunction

BACKGROUND

Clinical practice guidelines recommend testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) for men with sexual dysfunction and testosterone deficiency. However, TRT is commonly promoted in men without testosterone deficiency and existing trials often do not clearly report participants' testosterone levels or testosterone-related symptoms. This review assesses the potential benefits and harms of TRT in men presenting with complaints of sexual dysfunction.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effects of testosterone replacement therapy compared to placebo or other medical treatments in men with sexual dysfunction.

SEARCH METHODS

We performed a comprehensive search of CENTRAL (the Cochrane Library), MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the trials registries ClinicalTrials.gov and World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, with no restrictions on language of publication or publication status, up to 29 August 2023.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in men (40 years or over) with sexual dysfunction. We excluded men with primary or secondary hypogonadism. We compared testosterone or testosterone with phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (PDEI5I) to placebo or PDE5I alone.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently screened the literature, assessed the risk of bias, extracted data, and rated the certainty of evidence (CoE) according to GRADE using a minimally contextualized approach. We performed statistical analyses using a random-effects model and interpreted them according to standard Cochrane methodology. Predefined primary outcomes were self-reported erectile dysfunction assessed by a validated instrument, sexual quality of life assessed by a validated instrument, and cardiovascular mortality. Secondary outcomes were treatment withdrawal due to adverse events, prostate-related events, and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). We distinguished between short-term (up to 12 months) and long-term (> 12 months) outcomes.

MAIN RESULTS

We identified 43 studies with 11,419 randomized participants across three comparisons: testosterone versus placebo, testosterone versus PDE5I, and testosterone with PDE5I versus PDE5I alone. This abstract focuses on the most relevant comparison of testosterone versus placebo. Testosterone versus placebo (up to 12 months) Based on a predefined sensitivity analysis of studies at low risk of bias, and an analysis combing data from the similar International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-EF) and IIEF-5 instruments, TRT likely results in little to no difference in erectile function assessed with the IIEF-EF (mean difference (MD) 2.37, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.67 to 3.08; I² = 0%; 6 RCTs, 2016 participants; moderate CoE) on a scale from 6 to 30 with larger values reflecting better erectile function. We assumed a minimal clinically important difference (MCID) of greater than or equal to 4. TRT likely results in little to no change in sexual quality of life assessed with the Aging Males' Symptoms scale (MD -2.31, 95% CI -3.63 to -1.00; I² = 0%; 5 RCTs, 1030 participants; moderate CoE) on a scale from 17 to 85 with larger values reflecting worse sexual quality of life. We assumed a MCID of greater than or equal to 10. TRT also likely results in little to no difference in cardiovascular mortality (risk ratio (RR) 0.83, 95% CI 0.21 to 3.26; I² = 0%; 10 RCTs, 3525 participants; moderate CoE). Based on two cardiovascular deaths in the placebo group and an assumed MCID of 3%, this would correspond to no additional deaths per 1000 men (95% CI 1 fewer to 4 more). TRT also likely results in little to no difference in treatment withdrawal due to adverse events, prostate-related events, or LUTS. Testosterone versus placebo (later than 12 months) We are very uncertain about the longer-term effects of TRT on erectile dysfunction assessed with the IIEF-EF (MD 4.20, 95% CI -2.03 to 10.43; 1 study, 42 participants; very low CoE). We did not find studies reporting on sexual quality of life or cardiovascular mortality. We are very uncertain about the effect of testosterone on treatment withdrawal due to adverse events. We found no studies reporting on prostate-related events or LUTS.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

In the short term, TRT probably has little to no effect on erectile function, sexual quality of life, or cardiovascular mortality compared to a placebo. It likely results in little to no difference in treatment withdrawals due to adverse events, prostate-related events, or LUTS. In the long term, we are very uncertain about the effects of TRT on erectile function when compared to placebo; we did not find data on its effects on sexual quality of life or cardiovascular mortality. The certainty of evidence ranged from moderate (signaling that we are confident that the reported effect size is likely to be close to the true effect) to very low (indicating that the true effect is likely to be substantially different). The findings of this review should help to inform future guidelines and clinical decision-making at the point of care.

Impact of Polypharmacy and Risk Factors for Exacerbation of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms in Patients with Urological Conditions: A Retrospective Study in a Japanese Municipal Hospital

Polypharmacy exacerbates lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). Japan exhibits a higher prevalence of concomitant medication use in drug therapy than other countries. Previous age- and sex-specific reports exist; however, none include patients of all ages. Therefore, this retrospective study determined the impact of polypharmacy and its associated risk factors on LUTS exacerbation in outpatients with urological conditions. We included patients receiving medication who visited the Department of Urology at the Gifu Municipal Hospital (Gifu, Japan) between January, 2018 and December, 2018. The association between LUTS and polypharmacy and the risk factors for LUTS exacerbation were investigated. Patients were categorized into two groups according to their polypharmacy status. We performed propensity score matching and compared the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) between the groups using the unpaired t-test. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to examine the risk factors, including "polypharmacy" and "taking multiple anticholinergic medications" for LUTS exacerbation. When comparing the IPSS between the groups, the polypharmacy group was found to have significantly higher scores than the non-polypharmacy group in six items, including "total score" and "storage score." Multiple logistic regression analysis results showed high significance in three items, including "polypharmacy" (odds ratio (OR) = 1.67, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.03-2.71) and "taking multiple anticholinergic medications" (OR = 8.68, 95% CI: 1.05-71.7). In conclusion, this study revealed that "polypharmacy" and "taking multiple anticholinergic medications" were risk factors for LUTS. Particularly, "polypharmacy" is associated with storage symptom exacerbation. Therefore, eliminating "polypharmacy" and "taking multiple anticholinergic medications" is expected to improve LUTS.

Comparison of Monotherapies and Combination Therapy of Tamsulosin and Tadalafil for Treating Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Caused by Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia with or without Erectile Dysfunction: A Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

There is limited research into the efficacy and safety of tadalafil combined with tamsulosin for the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), with or without erectile dysfunction (ED). Therefore, we aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of combination therapy compared to that of monotherapy.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, SinoMed, CNKI, WanFang Data Service Platform, and ClinicalTrials.gov to identify eligible studies. A total of 639 articles were retrieved, of which 12 were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published as of February 2023 and included in this meta-analysis.

RESULTS

After screening 639 articles, 12 RCTs including 1,531 subjects were considered eligible for the meta-analysis. The results showed that the total International Prostate System Score (total IPSS), maximum flow rate (Qmax), and quality of life (QoL) in tadalafil combined with tamsulosin were significantly better than those in monotherapy. Compared with tadalafil monotherapy, combination therapy mainly improved IPSS voiding. As for postvoid residual urine (PVR), the combination therapy did not improve PVR compared to the tadalafil group, but significantly improved PVR compared to the tamsulosin group. For the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), the curative effect of the combined group was better than that of the tamsulosin group but not better than that of the tadalafil group. In terms of safety, the adverse reactions (AEs) in the combined treatment group were significantly higher than those in the monotherapy group. None of the 12 RCTs reported serious adverse events.

CONCLUSIONS

Tadalafil combined with tamsulosin was more effective in the treatment of male LUTS/BPH, with or without ED, on the improvement of total IPSS, QoL, and Qmax. However, the benefits of combination therapy for ED remain unclear. However, combination therapy seemed to have a higher incidence of adverse reactions.

[Study of allelic variants of the CYP2D6 and CYP3A genes on the effectiveness and safety of tamsulosin therapy in patients with BPH: results of a pilot study]

INTRODUCTION

Tamsulosin is a member of the group of selective 1-adrenoblockers. Tamsulosin monotherapy is the most common first-line option in patients with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and can be used regardless on severity of LUTS. The CYP2D6, CYP3A4, and CYP3A5 enzymes are involved in the metabolism of tamsulosin. Carriage of different allelic variants of CYP2D6, CYP3A4 and CYP3A5, involved in its metabolism, may potentially affect the variability of efficacy and safety of the drug.

AIM

To evaluate the effect of carriage of allelic variants of cytochrome P450 superfamily enzyme genes (CYP2D6*3, CYP2D6*4, CYP2D6*9, CYP2D6*10, CYP2D6*41, CYP3A4*3, CYP3A4*22 and CYP3A5*3) on the efficiency and safety of tamsulosin in patients with LUTS associated with BPH.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All phases of the study were completed by 106 patients with LUTS/BPH (N40 according to ICD 10). All patients received monotherapy with tamsulosin 0.4 mg/day for a minimum of 8 weeks. Based on the severity of symptoms, they were divided into two groups using the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS). In Group 1, there were patients with moderate symptoms (IPSS score of 8-19) (n=57), while Group 2 consisted of those with severe symptoms (IPSS score >20) (n=49). Treatment outcomes were assessed using the IPSS score with determination of quality of life (QoL), transrectal ultrasound with evaluation of prostate volume and residual urine, and uroflowmetry. Follow-up visits were at 2, 4, and 8 weeks after the start of therapy. Genotyping of all patients was performed using polymerase chain reaction to determine the CYP2D6 (*3, *4, *9, *10, and *41), CYP3A4 (*3, *22), and CYP3A5*3 markers.

RESULTS

In the group of patients with moderate symptoms, carriers of the CYP2D6*10 and CYP2D6*41 polymorphisms showed a significantly greater reduction in symptoms according to the overall IPSS score at 8 weeks (p=0.046) and in the micturition symptom subscale starting from 4 weeks of treatment (p<0.05). Carriers of the CYP2D6*10 polymorphism in both groups were associated with a decrease in residual urine volume at 8 weeks (p<0.05). The presence of the CYP3A5*3 variant in those with severe symptoms significantly improved quality of life during therapy. Allelic variants of the CYP2D6 and CYP3A genes did not affect the frequency of adverse events.

CONCLUSION

The results obtained by calculating the prognostic significance of individual polymorphic markers pointed to the contribution of CYP2D6*10 and CYP2D6*41. Tamsulosin therapy is more effective in patients with LUTS who are carriers of these allele variants. The safety parameters of tamsulosin were not influenced by the studied polymorphic variants. It was found that CYP3A5*3 was associated with an increase in the subjective assessment of the patient's quality of life, but it is too early to draw final conclusions. The issue of the contribution of genetic factors to the efficiency and safety of treatment of LUTS in BPH requires further study with a larger sample size and analyzed parameters.

Effects of CYP2D6 allelic variants on therapy with tamsulosin in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia

OBJECTIVES

Tamsulosin is a first-line drug for the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Despite its high ratings for efficacy and safety, these parameters may vary due to genetic polymorphisms of CYP2D6 enzyme, which is involved in the metabolism of the drug. This variability may have great impact on the therapy of LUTS associated with BPH and may require an individualized approach to drug selection. The aim of the study was to assess the impact of genetic polymorphisms in CYP2D6 on the efficacy and safety of tamsulosin therapy in patients with LUTS associated with BPH.

METHODS

The study included 106 patients with LUTS/BPH (N40 according to ICD-10). All patients received monotherapy with tamsulosin 0.4 mg/day for at least 8 weeks. Depending on the severity of symptoms, all patients were divided into 2 groups based on the IPSS score: the first group of patients had moderate symptoms (n=57), and the second group of patients had severe symptoms (n=49). The results of treatment were assessed using the IPSS questionnaire with determination of quality of life (QoL), transrectal ultrasound of the prostate with determination of prostate volume and postvoid residual urine volume, and uroflowmetry. The carriage of allelic variants of CYP2D6 (*3, *4, *9, *10, and *41) were determined by polymerase chain reaction in all patients.

RESULTS

In patients with moderate symptoms who was classified as «intermediate» metabolizers by CYP2D6, a statistically significant greater reduction in symptoms according to the overall IPSS scale at 8 weeks (p=0.046) and the obstructive symptom subscale starting from 4 weeks of treatment (p<0.05) was shown. Allelic variants of the CYP2D6 gene did not affect the frequency of adverse reactions to tamsulosin.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the study show that in patients with moderate LUTS associated with BPH who are «intermediate» metabolizers by CYP2D6, there is a better therapeutic effect of tamsulosin.

SARS-CoV-2 infection correlates with male benign prostatic hyperplasia deterioration

INTRODUCTION

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) affects extra-respiratory systems, with small-scale studies showing worsened male lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) after coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). This study explores the correlation between SARS-CoV-2 infection and male benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) complications using large-scale real world data.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All male patients attending the public healthcare system in Hong Kong receiving alpha-blocker monotherapy for LUTS from 2021 to 2022 were included in this study. Patients with and without positive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test for SARS-CoV-2 are selected as the exposure group and control group, respectively. Baseline characteristics are retrieved, with propensity score matching performed to ensure balance of covariates between the two groups. BPH complications were then compared and subgroup analyses were performed.

RESULTS

After propensity score matching, 17,986 patients were included for analysis, among which half had PCR-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection (n = 8993). When compared to controls, the SARS-CoV-2 group demonstrated statistically significant higher incidence of retention of urine (4.55% vs. 0.86%, p < 0.001), haematuria (1.36% vs. 0.41%, p < 0.001), clinical urinary tract infection (UTI) (4.31% vs. 1.49%, p < 0.001), culture-proven bacteriuria (9.02% vs. 1.97%, p < 0.001) and addition of 5ARI (0.50% vs. 0.02%, p < 0.001). Subgroup analysis demonstrated similar differences across different age groups. There are no statistically significance differences in incidence of retention, haematuria, or addition of 5ARI across different COVID-19 severities.

CONCLUSIONS

SARS-CoV-2 infection is associated with increased incidence of urinary retention, haematuria, UTI and the addition of combination therapy in the short term, regardless of COVID-19 severity. This is the largest study demonstrating the detrimental urological effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

[Evaluation of the effect of Alfuprost MR on detrusor thickness and bladder mass in patients with detrusor hypertrophy caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia]

INTRODUCTION

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) can lead to the detrusor hypertrophy and deterioration of the bladder function with a decrease in its contractile activity. A number of publications are presented in the literature, the results of which indicate the possibility of reducing bladder hypertrophy with alpha-blockers.

AIM

To carry out the retrospective analysis to study the effect of Alfuprost MR on urodynamic parameters, as well as the influence of the therapy on detrusor thickness and bladder mass in patients with detrusor hypertrophy and bladder outlet obstruction caused by BPH.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Outpatient records of 30 patients with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) caused by BPH who received Alfuprost MR as monotherapy for 24 weeks were reviewed. Based on the diaries, the following parameters were assessed: total IPSS score, IPSS voiding (questions No. 1, 3, 5 and 6) and storage subscale scores (questions No. 2, 4 and 7), maximum flow rate (Qmax) according to uroflowmetry, the volume of the prostate and the postvoid residual (assessed by ultrasound), satisfaction with treatment on the quality-of-life score (QoL), as well as the changes in detrusor thickness and bladder mass index.

RESULTS

An improvement in LUTS severity, starting from the 4th week of treatment, followed by a positive trend that persists until the 24th week of therapy with Alfuprost MR, was found. The overall average IPSS score improved by 39.0% by the 24th week of therapy. At the same time, voiding symptoms improved by 46.8%, and storage symptoms improved by 30.9% by 24 weeks of therapy. The average Qmax increased significantly (p<0.05) by 22.1% after 24 weeks of therapy. The average detrusor thickness decreased by 40,2%. Bladder mass index decreased significantly by an average of 34,3% (p<0.05). QoL score improved significantly (p<0.05) by 2.2 points after 24 weeks of therapy.

CONCLUSION

During the 24-week treatment of patients with BPH, Alfuprost MR demonstrated clinical efficacy not only in reducing voiding symptoms and in improving the QoL, but also a positive effect on detrusor hypertrophy, as evidenced by changes in detrusor thickness and bladder mass index. The absence of any adverse events, including decrease in blood pressure and heart rate, allows us to recommend Alfuprost MR as an effective treatment for LUTS associated with BPH, which reduces detrusor hypertrophy and has a high safety profile and minimal vasodilating effects.

Association between switching prescribed drugs for lower urinary tract symptoms and independence of urination in post-stroke patients: A retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVES

Stroke patients frequently exhibit loss of independence of urination, and their lower urinary tract symptoms change with the phase of stroke. However, it is unclear whether switching prescribed drugs for lower urinary tract symptoms during hospitalization from acute care wards to convalescence rehabilitation wards affects patients' independence of urination at discharge. It is also unclear whether the impact of switching varies by stroke type. This retrospective cohort study aimed to examine these issues.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We analyzed 990 patients registered in the Kaga Regional Cooperation Clinical Pathway for Stroke database during 2015-2019. Prescriptions for lower urinary tract symptoms from pre-onset to convalescence rehabilitation were surveyed. Logistic regression analysis was performed to examine the association between switching drugs and independence of urination based on bladder management and voiding location at discharge. Stroke types were also examined in subgroup analyses.

RESULTS

About 21 % of patients had their lower urinary tract symptoms prescriptions switched during hospitalization. Switching was positively associated with independence of bladder management (odds ratio 1.65, 95 % confidence interval 1.07 to 2.49) and voiding location (odds ratio 2.72, 95 % confidence interval 1.72 to 4.37). Similar associations were observed in different stroke types.

CONCLUSIONS

Approximately 20 % of patients had their lower urinary tract symptoms medications switched upon transfer from acute to convalescence rehabilitation wards. Switching was significantly associated with improved urinary independence at discharge. Consistent results were observed across different stroke types, suggesting that switching medications contributes to urinary independence after stroke, regardless of the etiology or severity of stroke.

Clinical Effects of Oral Supplementation of Gamma-Cyclodextrin Curcumin Complex in Male Patients with Moderate-To-Severe Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia-Related Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms

INTRODUCTION

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is the most common cause of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTSs) in males. Curcumin exhibits anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties which may be effective for BPH. This multi-arm observational study evaluated the real-world efficacy of QURMIN® (Gamma-cyclodextrin-curcumin Complex-CAVACURMIN®) as single or combination therapy for BPH.

METHODS

Men with moderate-severe LUTS/BPH, receiving a 6-month supplementation with QURMIN® alone or in combination with BPH-specific medication were propensity score matched with patients not taking curcumin and then divided into subgroups based on concomitant baseline treatment. Cohorts were compared in the 6-month variation of IPSS, quality of life (IPSS-QoL), Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Impact Index (BII) and uroflowmetry parameters. Curcumin tolerability was evaluated in terms of discontinuations and adverse effects.

RESULTS

The 1:1 propensity score matching resulted in a treatment-naïve (n = 152), an alpha-blocker only (AB) (n = 138) and AB + 5-alpha reductase inhibitors (5-ARIs) (n = 78) subgroup. After 6 months, drug-naïve patients taking curcumin reported significant improvement in IPSS-storage (-3.9, p < 0.001), IPSS-voiding (-2.0, p = 0.011), IPSS-total (-5.9, p < 0.001), IPSS-QoL (-3.9, p < 0.001), BII (-2.0, p < 0.001), Qmax (+3.1 mL/s, p < 0.001), Qmean (+1.9 mL/s, p = 0.005), post-void residual volume (-7.7 mL, p < 0.001), and PSA (-0.3 ng/mL, p = 0.003), compared to controls. Patients taking ABs and curcumin showed improvement in IPSS-storage (-2.7, p < 0.001), IPSS-voiding (-1.3, p = 0.033), IPSS-total (-3.5, p < 0.001), IPSS-QoL (-1.1, p = 0.004), BII (-1.7, p = 0.006), Qmax (+1.0 mL/s, p = 0.006), and PSA (-0.2 ng/mL, p = 0.01). Patients taking curcumin and AB + 5-ARI showed improvement in IPSS-storage (-1.3, p = 0.007), IPSS-total (-1.6, p = 0.034), IPSS-QoL (-1.1, p < 0.001), and BII (-2.0, p < 0.001). No adverse reactions were reported for curcumin supplementation.

CONCLUSION

QURMIN® (CAVACURMIN®) led to significant improvements in symptom burden, uroflow parameters, and QoL, without significant additional side effects, thus proving to be a potential new treatment for BPH, either as a single therapy or in addition to standard treatment.

Comparison of add-on medications for persistent storage symptoms after α-blocker treatment in BPH patients - a network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) receive α-blockers as first-line therapy to treat lower urinary tract symptoms; however, some individuals still experience residual storage symptoms. Antimuscarinics, β3-agonists, and desmopressin are effective add-on medications. Nevertheless, there is currently no evidence for the appropriate choice of the first add-on medication. This systematic review aimed to investigate the clinical benefits of antimuscarinics, β3-agonists, and desmopressin, in addition to α-blockers, for persistent storage symptoms in BPH patients.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the efficacy of different add-on medications in BPH patients with persistent storage symptoms despite α-blocker treatment was conducted. Clinical outcomes included the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), IPSS storage subscore, nocturia, micturition, and urgency. A network meta-analysis was performed to estimate the effect size. Surface under cumulative ranking curves (SUCRAs) were used to rank the included treatments for each outcome.

RESULTS

A total of 15 RCTs were identified. Add-on imidafenacin and mirabegron resulted in significant improvement in all outcomes assessed. Other add-on medications such as desmopressin, tolterodine, solifenacin, fesoterodine, and propiverine showed positive benefits for most, but not all, outcomes. Based on the SUCRA rankings, add-on desmopressin was the best-ranked treatment for IPSS and nocturia, and add-on imidafenacin was the best for the IPSS storage subscore and micturition.

CONCLUSIONS

BPH patients presenting with persistent storage symptoms despite α-blocker administration are recommended to include additional treatment. Desmopressin and imidafenacin may be considered high-priority add-on treatments because of their superior efficacy compared with other medications.

The Impact of Polypharmacy on Management of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms in Parkinson's Disease

Lower urinary tract (LUT) symptoms are a common presentation of autonomic dysfunction in Parkinson's disease (PD). Symptoms significantly impact quality of life and are associated with worsening of motor symptoms and increased risk for falls. Different medical co-morbidities can often contribute to LUT symptoms, and a thorough evaluation therefore becomes essential. The effects of medications used for Parkinson's disease and other co-existing medical co-morbidities on LUT symptoms is often underestimated. Treatment options include behavioural therapy, oral agents such as antimuscarinic and beta-3 receptor agonist agents, botulinum toxin and neuromodulation. The first-line oral agents cause adverse effects that may exacerbate pre-existing Parkinson's disease-related symptoms. Furthermore, these oral agents can interact with other medications used in Parkinson's disease, and the challenges posed by interactions on pharmacological effects and metabolism are discussed. Knowledge about drug interactions can help in effective management of such patients and mitigate the risks for developing adverse effects.

Potential drug-drug interactions in males living with HIV who use drugs to treat lower urinary tract symptoms

OBJECTIVE

Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are becoming more prevalent in the ageing population of males living with HIV. Drugs to treat LUTS are known for both their potential role as victims in drug-drug interactions (DDIs) and their side effects. We aimed to evaluate the current use of drugs to treat LUTS and to assess potential DDIs in our cohort of adult males living with HIV.

DESIGN

This was a retrospective review of pharmacy records.

METHODS

We recorded the combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) regimen and any use of drugs to treat LUTS (anatomical therapeutic chemical codes G04CA/CB/CX and G04BD). Potential DDIs were assessed using the interaction checker developed by the University of Liverpool (https://www.hiv-druginteractions.org/checker).

RESULTS

A total of 411 adult males living with HIV were included in this analysis. The median (interquartile range [IQR]) age was 53 (41-62) years. Nineteen (4.6%) patients used one or more drugs to treat LUTS. As expected, older patients were more likely to be receiving treatment for LUTS: Q1 (20-40 years) = 0%; Q2 (41-52 years) = 2%; Q3 (53-61 years) = 7%; Q4 (62-79 years) = 10%. Seven potential DDIs between cART and LUTS treatment were noted in six of the 19 (32%) patients. Following medication reviews of these six patients, the following interventions were proposed: evaluate safe use of alpha-blocker (n = 4), change in cART (n = 2), and dose reduction of the anticholinergic agent (n = 1).

CONCLUSION

Treatment for LUTS coincided with cART in 7%-10% of patients aged above the median age of 53 years in our cohort. Improvements in DDI management appeared to be possible in this growing cohort of males living with HIV and with LUTS.

[Lower urinary tract symptoms in patients with arterial hypertension. Cardiovascular risk and impact on their quality of life]

OBJETIVES

To determine the prevalence of erectile lower urinary tract symptoms in hypertensive patients, cardiovascular risk and the impact on quality of life.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Setting: Health Center (Vilagarcia, Pontevedra).

PERIOD

April 2015-June 2017.

INCLUSION CRITERIA

Hypertensive patient with informed consent.

MEASUREMENTS

sociodemographic variables, toxic habits, comorbidity, blood pressure, cardiovascular risk, analytical and examination parameters. Questionaries: International Prostate Symptom Scale (IPSS), International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-15) and quality of life in arterial hypertension (MINICHAL).

SAMPLE SIZE

n=262 (± 6% accuracy, 95% confidence).

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

Bivariate and multivariate statistical analysis. Informed consent and ethics committee approval were obtained (2024/237) RESULTS: The mean age was 65.84 (12.70), and mean hypertension duration of 13.25 (9.84) years. 76.7% reported lower tract urinary symptoms, 91.6% being mild. The bivariate analysis showed an association with the variables: age, educational level, profession, work activity, tobacco, benign prostatic hypertrophy, years of diagnosis, concomitant medication, Framingham-Wilson score, electrocardiogram, glycated hemoglobin, glomerular filtration (Crockroft-Gault), LDL-cholesterol, somatic manifestations (MINICHAL), erectile dysfunction. The multivariate analysis showed increased risk with:abdominal obesity, pathological electrocardiogram, high risk of Framingham-Wilson score, erectile dysfunction, use of hypouricemics agents and decreased with not smoking and use diuretics.

CONCLUSIONS

Three quarters of hypertensive men presented lower urinary tract symptoms, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease early according to the Framingham-Wilson score. Other predictive factors were: abdominal obesity, tobacco, pathological electrocardiogram, high Framingham-Wilson score, erectile dysfunction, use of hypouricemics agents.

Ejaculation physiology and dysfunction after BPH surgery: the role of the new MISTs

BACKGROUND

Human ejaculation can be defined as a complex and still largely unknown function. Since decades, Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) surgery-associated loss of antegrade ejaculation has been reported as a bother by many patients. New technologies and modified surgical techniques were developed, to reduce the impact of ejaculatory dysfunction on patients' perceived quality of life. Recently, the emerging of the new Minimally Invasive Surgical Techniques (MISTs) empowered the urological surgeons with the technological means to introduce the ejaculation-sparing principles into everyday clinical practice.

METHODS

Our paper was conceived as a state-of-the-art analysis about the anatomical and physiological premises of the human ejaculation and their clinical application in the field of ejaculation-sparing surgery for the treatment of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS). Moreover, we proposed an innovative physiological model for antegrade ejaculation.

RESULTS

We analysed the elements of the "ejaculatory apparatus" from an anatomical point of view. We investigated the physio-pathological models of the human ejaculation, from the classical "combustion chamber" paradigm to the new evidences by which it could be overcome. Finally, we provided a synthetic literature review about the ejaculation-sparing techniques for BPH surgery. Particularly, we distinguished them between classical techniques, modified for ejaculation-preserving purposes, and the new MISTs, characterized by the introduction of new technologies and different treatment modalities.

CONCLUSIONS

Modified surgical techniques and new technologies opened new perspectives about human ejaculation. Previously established functional paradigms were questioned and overcome by recent clinical evidence. The new MISTs gained a prominent role in the process, opening a whole new era for BPH surgery.

Overview of current pharmacotherapeutic options in benign prostatic hyperplasia

INTRODUCTION

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) represents the histological entity of prostate cell proliferation, which inflicts a gradually increasing obstruction of the bladder outlet and is accompanied by a progressing manifestation of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). BPH management algorithm includes conservative measures, pharmaceutical agents, and surgical procedures.

AREAS COVERED

A comprehensive literature review was performed using PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases to identify publications written in English, analyzing BPH pharmaceutical treatment. The search was conducted from January 2000 to January 2023. Six main drug classes can be administered, either as monotherapy or in combination. Furthermore, the authors provide current direction of research on future medications, which focuses on a more etiological interference to the BPH pathophysiological mechanism.

EXPERT OPINION

The available medications represent an effective first-line step of BPH/LUTS therapy. Currently, the administration of BPH medications is tailored to patient/disease characteristics and entails long-time adherence to therapy. The emergence of new surgical modalities, which combine significantly lower morbidity compared to standard procedures and more durable effects than the available medications, seems to challenge the current treatment algorithm. More direct comparisons and the increasing experience with these surgical modalities will delineate the switch points between various therapy levels along the BPH management sequence.

Management of use of urinary antimuscarinics and alpha blockers for benign prostatic hyperplasia in older adults at risk of falls: a clinical review

PURPOSE

We aimed to outline the existing information and the underlying mechanisms of risk of falls associated with the use of urinary antimuscarinics for overactive bladder (OAB) or alpha-blockers for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in older adults. In addition, we aimed to provide assistance to clinicians in decision-making about (de-)prescribing these drugs in older adults.

METHODOLOGY

Based on a literature search in PubMed and Google Scholar, we reviewed the literature, and identified additional relevant articles from reference lists, with an emphasis on the most commonly prescribed drugs in OAB and BPH in older patients. We discussed the use of bladder antimuscarinics and alpha-blockers, their potential side effects related to falls, and the deprescribing of these drugs in older adults.

RESULTS

Urinary urgency or incontinence and lower urinary tract symptoms due to untreated OAB and BPH contribute to fall risk. On the other hand, the use of bladder antimuscarinics and alpha-blockers is also related to fall risk. They contribute to (or cause) falling through dizziness, somnolence, visual impairment, and orthostatic hypotension while they differ in their side-effect profiles regarding these problems. Falls are common and can cause a remarkable amount of morbidity and mortality. Thus, preventive measures should be taken to lower the risk. If the clinical condition allows, withdrawal of bladder antimuscarinics and alpha-blockers is recommended in fall-prone older adults. There are practical resources and algorithms that guide and assist clinicians in deprescribing these drug groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The decision to prescribe or deprescribe these treatments in patients at high risk of falls should be individualized. In addition to explicit tools that are helpful for clinical decision-making in (de-)prescribing these drugs, STOPPFall (a recently developed expert-based decision aid specifically aiming to prevent falls) is present to assist prescribers in attaining decisions.

Potential side effects of currently available pharmacotherapies in male lower urinary tract symptoms suggestive of benign prostatic hyperplasia

INTRODUCTION

The drug classes of α1-adrenoceptor antagonists, 5α-reductase inhibitors, and phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors are guideline-recommended treatments of lower urinary tract symptoms suggestive of benign prostatic hyperplasia; muscarinic receptor antagonists and β3-adrenoceptor agonists are also recommended if storage symptoms are insufficiently addressed with one of the other three drug classes.

AREAS COVERED

We provide a narrative review (no formalized literature searches performed) of the tolerability of these drug classes with emphasis on the more recently introduced medications, on combination treatment, and on more lately emerging risks.

EXPERT OPINION/COMMENTARY

The tolerability profiles are distinct between drug classes but, with few exceptions, similar within a drug class. Within a drug, formulations with longer duration of action tend to have better tolerability. Efficacy gains using combination treatment at least partly come at a cost of lesser tolerability. Greater susceptibility to experience adverse events based on age, comorbidities, and comedications appears conceptually important but remains under-investigated in this therapeutic area.

[Efficacy of Urapidil in treating lower urinary tract symptoms in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia: A systematic review and meta-analysis]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the potential application of α-1 blocker (urapidil) in the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in male patients with benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH), we conducted a comprehensive meta-analysis.

METHODS

Our study involved identifying and collecting randomized controlled trials (RCT) and clinical observational studies from databases including PubMed、MEDLINE、Web of science、CNKI and Wanfang database. We performed meta-analysis using RevMan 5.2.0 software for both fixed effects model and random effects model.

RESULTS

Our analysis included 3 short-term (within 1 month) observational studies and 1 RCT involving 142 patients. We found that urapidil significantly improved the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS, MD=－5.57, 95%CI: －7.98～－3.16，P<0.00001), nocturia（MD=－0.7, 95%CI: －1.16～－0.24，P=0.003）, residual urine rate（MD=－6.97；95%CI: －12.57～－1.37，P=0.01）, average flow rate（MD=2.04；95%CI: 0.52～3.56，P=0.008）, and maximum flow rate （MD=4.29；95%CI: 0.58～8.01，P=0.02）of patients. However, there was no significant difference in the residual urine volume（MD=－35.93；95%CI: －78.62～6.76，P=0.10）between pre-treatment and post-treatment groups.

CONCLUSION

Urapidil is an effective medication for relieving LUTS in BPH patients. However, due to the limited quantity and quality of current RCT studies, high-quality and large-scale RCT studies are still needed to further confirm this conclusion.

The Efficacy of Cyclooxygenase-2 Inhibitors for the Male Treatment of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

To investigate the potential use of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitors in the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in male patients, we conducted a comprehensive meta-analysis. Our study involved the identification and collection of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) from leading databases including PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library. The primary objective of this analysis was to evaluate the effectiveness of COX-2 inhibitors for the treatment of LUTS. Our analysis involved six short-term (within 3 months) RCTs involving 707 patients. We found that COX-2 inhibitor treatment significantly improved the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) of patients (mean difference [MD] = -2.99, 95% confidence interval (CI): -3.65 to -2.33, p < .00001), nocturia frequency (MD = -1.90; 95% CI: -3.18 to -0.61, p = .004), and maximum flow rate (Qmax) (MD = 1.02; 95% CI: 0.06 to 1.98, p = .04). However, no significant differences were found between patients in terms of changes in prostate-specific antigen (PSA) (MD = 0.02; 95% CI: -0.39 to 0.43, p = .92) and total prostate volume (TPV) (MD = -2.93; 95% CI: -6.45 to 0.59, p = .10). Therefore COX-2 inhibitors are an effective treatment for LUTS.

[Evolution of views on the etiology and pathogenesis of lower urinary tract symptoms for men]

The review article in the format of a "Lecture for Doctors" examines the evolution of terminology reflecting various disorders of urination and understanding their etiology and pathogenesis from a methodological and historical point of view. Symptoms of the lower urinary tract (LUTS) is a new term that replaced the term "Dysuria" that previously existed in the literature and suggests the allocation of various groups of symptoms depending on the violation of key functions of the bladder, which greatly facilitates obtaining reliable information about the state of urination in a particular patient. However, for a long time, LUTS were identified exclusively with urological pathology. Thanks to the fundamental research of recent decades, it has become obvious that LUTS is an interdisciplinary problem involving various specialists in the process of diagnosis and correction. One of the current trends in the study of the urination pathophysiology is the influence of systemic hormonal and metabolic disorders in men, which are considered as independent factors of the LUTS. The role of testosterone deficiency in the pathogenesis of LUTS is highlighted and the safety and effectiveness of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) in hypogonadal men with LUTS is shown.

Reaching a Tipping Point: A Qualitative Exploration of Quality of Life and Treatment Decision-Making in People Living With Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition amongst older men and is associated with lower urinary tract symptoms and erectile dysfunction; these symptoms can be burdensome and negatively affect quality of life. Various surgical and pharmaceutical treatment options exist but there is a paucity of qualitative research exploring men's decision-making when seeking BPH treatment. This study qualitatively explored men's experience of living with BPH and seeking treatment for BPH. Twenty men (aged 52-75) were recruited from outpatient urology clinics at a hospital trust in Southern England. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews (via video or telephone call) and were audio-recorded; transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis. Four themes were generated: 'Impacts are about more than just physical symptoms', 'The path towards treatment', 'The process of information gathering' and 'Navigating hopes, fears and uncertainty'. Results indicate most men appear to seek treatment for BPH following a gradual, and sometimes lengthy, period of deterioration in symptoms; for some men, however, treatment seeking follows an acute episode of sudden or severe symptoms. The decision to proceed with surgical or minimally invasive treatment options appears to be dependent on men reaching a tipping point; they no longer perceive their symptoms as tolerable and feel their ability to cope with symptoms is reduced. Men each bring their own set of concerns and preferences about side effects and risk-benefit profiles of different treatments. Clinicians need to be sensitive to these individual differences and incorporate them into shared decision-making for choosing between treatment options for BPH.

Efficacy and safety of dutasteride with tadalafil add-on therapy in patients with lower urinary tract symptoms secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of add-on therapy with the phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor tadalafil in Japanese men with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) treated with dutasteride.

RESULTS

Twenty-four patients were enrolled. The participants had a median age of 71.0 (64.8-73.0) years and a median prostate volume of 37.3 (29.7-41.8) mL as measured using transabdominal sonography. The efficacy indicators, such as International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), quality of life (QOL) score, night-time urinary frequency, and night-time maximum voided volume, improved significantly at 4 weeks, and the effects lasted until 24 weeks (IPSS: 9.5 vs. 17.0, QOL: 2.0 vs. 4.0, nocturia: 2.0 vs. 2.0, night-time maximum voided volume: 290.0 vs. 240.0 mL). Overactive bladder symptom score (OABSS) and sexual health inventory for men (SHIM) significantly improved at 12 weeks, and the effects lasted until 24 weeks (OABSS: 3.0 vs. 5.0, SHIM: 11.0 vs. 7.5). However, maximum urine flow and residual urine volume showed no improvement at any point. Adverse events occurred in two cases. Taken together, add-on therapy with tadalafil was effective for patients with LUTS/BPH resistant to dutasteride monotherapy. In addition, this therapy was not associated with severe adverse events.

The relationship of depression, alcohol and marijuana with treatment for LUTS/BPH

INTRODUCTION

Despite widespread usage, research on the relationship of marijuana use to disease is sorely lacking. We sought to test the relationship of LUTS/BPH treatment and endocannabinoid agonist usage, as well as alcohol usage and depression, with treatment for LUTS/BPH in our health system.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We queried our hospital system database of nearly three million patients in a marijuana-legalized region for data from the electronic medical record between January 2011 and October 2018. Men over the age of 45 on medical therapy for LUTS (selective alpha blockade and/or finasteride) were included. Exclusions were diagnosis of bladder or prostate malignancy and men with only one visit. Alcohol and marijuana (MJ) use were found from diagnosis code and/or social history text. Medical diagnoses were based on ICD-9/10 codes. Multiple logistic regression was used to control for confounders. We considered all men over the age of 45 who had any of these features: depression, obesity or metabolic syndrome (MetS), hypertension (HTN), erectile dysfunction (ED), hypogonadism, diabetes (DM) and calculated the odds ratio of also receiving medical therapy for LUTS. Univariable and multivariable analyses were employed, multiple logistic regression was used to control for confounders.

RESULTS

A total of 173,469 patients were identified meeting criteria with 20,548 (11.9%) on medical treatment for LUTS. After adjusting for confounding variables, MJ and depression remained associated with an increased risk of LUTS medication, within the context of verifying previously established relationships of ED, Obesity/MetS, DM, HTN and hypogonadism.

CONCLUSIONS

Men with depression and MJ usage were more likely to be treated for LUTS/BPH in our system. Better understanding of the causality of this relationship and potential interaction of LUTS/BPH with the endocannabinoid system is desirable.

Evolving Role of Silodosin for the Treatment of Urological Disorders – A Narrative Review

Use of α-androgenic receptor blockers remains a mainstay therapeutic approach for the treatment of urological diseases. Silodosin is recommended over other α-blockers for the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH), due to its high α_1A uroselectivity. Current research data suggest that silodosin is efficacious in the management of various urological diseases. Thus, we herein review the current evidence of silodosin related to its efficacy and tolerability and appraise the available literature that might ultimately aid in management of various urological conditions at routine clinical practice. Literature reveals that silodosin is beneficial in improving nocturia events related to LUTS/BPH. Silodosin exerts effect on relaxing muscles involved in detrusor obstruction, therefore prolonging the need for patients undergoing invasive surgery. Silodosin treatment, either as a monotherapy or combination, significantly improves International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) including both storage and voiding symptoms in patients with BPH/LUTS. Patients on other treatment therapies such as phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors or other α-blockers are well managed with this drug. Steadily, silodosin has proved beneficial in the treatment of other urological disorders such as chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS), overactive bladder/acute urinary retention (AUR), premature ejaculation (PE), and prostate cancer post brachytherapy-induced progression. In patients with distal ureteral stones, silodosin treatment is beneficial in decreasing stone expulsion time without affecting stone expulsion rate or analgesic need. Moreover, there were significant improvements in intravaginal ejaculation latency time, quality of life scores, and decrease in PE profile among patients with PE. Silodosin has also demonstrated promising results in increasing the likelihood of successful trial without catheter in patients with AUR and those taking antihypertensive drugs. Reports from Phase II studies have shown promising role of silodosin in the treatment of CP/CPPS as well as facilitating ureteral stone passage. From the robust data in this review, further silodosin treatment strategies in the management of different urological conditions need to be focused on.

Testosterone does not affect lower urinary tract symptoms while improving markers of prostatitis in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia: a randomized clinical trial

PURPOSE

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a result of prostate inflammation, frequently occurring in metabolic syndrome (MetS). Low testosterone is common in MetS. A randomized clinical trial was designed to evaluate if 24 weeks of testosterone therapy (TTh) in BPH men with MetS and low testosterone improve urinary symptoms and prostate inflammation.

METHODS

One-hundred-twenty men with MetS waitlisted for BPH surgery were enrolled. They were categorized into normal testosterone (TT ≥ 12 nmol/L and cFT ≥ 225 pmol/L; n = 48) and testosterone deficient (TD) (TT < 12 nmol/L and/or cFT < 225 pmol/L; n = 72) then randomized to testosterone gel 2% (5 g/daily) or placebo for 24 weeks. At baseline and follow-up, questionnaires for urinary symptoms and trans-rectal ultrasound were performed. Prostate tissue was collected for molecular and histopathological analyses.

RESULTS

No differences in the improvement of urinary symptoms were found between TTh and placebo (OR [95% CI] 0.96 [0.39; 2.37]). In TD + TTh, increase in prostate but not adenoma volume was observed (2.64 mL [0.07; 5.20] and 1.82 mL [- 0.46; 0.41], respectively). Ultrasound markers of inflammation were improved. In a subset of 61 men, a hyper-expression of several pro-inflammatory genes was found in TD + placebo when compared with normal testosterone. TTh was able to counteract this effect. For 80 men, the inflammatory infiltrate was higher in TD + placebo than in normal testosterone (0.8 points [0.2; 1.4]) and TD + TTh men (0.9 points [0.2; 1.5]).

CONCLUSIONS

Twenty-four weeks of TTh in TD men with BPH and MetS improves ultrasound, molecular and histological proxies of prostate inflammation. This does not result in symptom improvement.

Prospective comparison of tadalafil 5 mg alone, silodosin 8 mg alone, and the combination of both in treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms related to benign prostatic hyperplasia

Background

Men with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), will have deterioration in the quality of life. Likewise, BPH can be complicated by damage to bladder function, bladder stones formation, hematuria, and impaired kidney function. The goal of treatment is to avoid all those effects caused by BPH.

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of tadalafil alone, silodosin alone, and the combination of both in the treatment of LUTS associated with BPH.

Patients and methods

Patients in our department with BPH who had LUTS were assigned randomly to three groups: A (101 patients) received tadalafil, 5 mg; B (102 patients) received silodosin, 8 mg; and group C (105 patients) received the combination of tadalafil, 5 mg, and silodosin, 8 mg. For all participants, we asses changes in the maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax), International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) score, Post-voiding urine (PVR) and all results were recorded and analyzed with the (SPSS) and Microsoft Excel 2010.

Results

Qmax, IPSS, PVR and IIEF score improved significantly more with the combination of tadalafil and silodosin than with either drug alone (p < 0.001). Three months after treatment, the mean Qmax values were 14.4 ml/sec in group A, 15.2 ml/sec in group B, and 15.8 ml/sec in group C; and the mean IPSSs were 17.6 in group A, 16.7 in group B, and 15.6 in group C (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Tadalafil and silodosin are effective treatment options in men with BPH who have LUTS, but the combination of both is more effective and feasible in treating LUTS of BPH.

Is tadalafil associated with decreased risk of major adverse cardiac events or venous thromboembolism in men with lower urinary tract symptoms?

Purpose

To evaluate the association of tadalafil, a phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor (PDE5I), with major adverse cardiac events (MACE) or venous thromboembolism (VTE) in men with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS).

Methods

Data was obtained from the TriNetX Research Network, ICD-10 codes were used to identify men with LUTS, MACE, and VTE. In addition, demographic characteristics and use of tadalafil or alpha-blocker was evaluated. Then, unbalanced and balanced association analyses was performed to assess the relation between tadalafil and/or alpha-blocker use with MACE/VTE.

Results

After participant selection, analysis included 821,592 men that did not use an alpha blocker or tadalafil, 5,004 men that used tadalafil but no alpha blocker, 327,482 men that used an alpha blocker but no tadalafil, and 6,603 men that used both an alpha blocker and tadalafil. On balanced analysis, tadalafil was independently associated with a decreased risk of MACE/VTE within a 3-year time period (OR = 0.59, 95%CI 0.49–0.70, p < 0.0001). Among men with a history of alpha blocker use, tadalafil use was also independently associated with a decreased risk of MACE or VTE, both before and after controlling for potentially confounding variables (OR = 0.57, 95%CI: 0.50–0.66; p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

In our study, tadalafil was associated with a decreased risk of MACE/VTE in men with LUTS with and without a history of alpha blocker use. It is time to perform further long-term prospective randomized studies to further analyze the cardiovascular effects of PDE5Is as combination treatment with alpha blockers in the management of LUTS.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00345-022-04005-3.

[Effectiveness of treatment with Pygeum africanum in patients with lower urinary tract symptoms and benign prostatic hyperplasia: a cross-sectional study in the real-world clinical practice in Spain (The PROFIT Study)]

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectivenessand tolerability of treatment with P africanum(P. africanum) in patients with lower urinary tractsymptoms (LUTS) associated with benign prostatichyperplasia (BPH) in routine clinical practice.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Cross-sectional observationalstudy in which 115 patients with LUTS/BPHtreated for 6 months with P. africanum (Tebetane® compuesto)in real-world clinical practice conditions wereincluded. The primary objective was to assess thequality of life (QoL) according to changes in the scoresof item 8 of the International Prostate Symptom Score(IPSS) questionnaire (a score ≥ 4 indicates a significantimpairment of QoL). Secondary objectives includedimprovement of urinary symptoms, urinary flow, satisfactionand compliance with treatment as well astolerability. Data were collected in a single scheduledvisit at 6 months of treatment with P. africanum andwere compared with data registered in the medicalrecords at the beginning of treatment.

RESULTS

After 6 months of treatment withP. africanum, the percentage of patient with significantimpairment of QoL was 22.6% as compared with45.2% at the initiation of treatment (P 0,-001). Theoverall IPSS score showed a mean decreas of -4,-5points (median -4,0, interquartile range [IQR] -7,-0 to-2,0) and 69 patients (60%) showed a clinically significantimprovement (reduction of ≥ 4 points). Therewere significant decreases in IPSS subscales of storage(mean -1,-8; median -2,-0, IQR -3,-0 to 0 (P 0,-001)and voiding (mean -1,-9; median -2,-0, IQR -3,-0 to 0)(P 0,-001) symptoms. The degree of satisfaction and compliance with treatment was high with mean scores(median) of 6,9 (7,0) and 9,2 (10), respectively in the1-10 visual analogue scale. Treatment-related adverseeffects did not occur.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment with P. africanum during6 months improved significantly QoL and LUTS inpatients with BPH, with a high level of satisfaction andcompliance with treatment, without adverse events.

Drug Prescription Patterns During Initial Treatment of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Associated With Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: A Study Based on Health Insurance Review and Assessment Database

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the drug prescription patterns for men diagnosed with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in Korea.

METHODS

We extracted the data of 3% of the national patient samples including men aged ≥ 40 years between 2012 and 2017 from the Health Insurance Review and Assessment database and investigated the drugs prescribed for men with the BPH code N40. Men with a diagnosis of BPH but not receiving treatment were excluded. The primary outcome was the drugs prescribed and the changes in drug prescription pattern over 6 years for men first diagnosed with BPH.

RESULTS

Alpha blockers were the most commonly prescribed drugs in men with BPH, and tamsulosin was the most common. The proportion of prescriptions increased steadily. The number of prescriptions for anticholinergics (ACH) increased, but decreased with the start of mirabegron prescriptions in 2015. Prescriptions of mirabegron are increasing rapidly and replacing ACH. Based on the prescription pattern by drug category, alpha blocker monotherapy decreased, whereas combination therapies such as alpha blocker + 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors (5ARI), and alpha blocker + 5ARI + ACH increased steadily. As for the number of prescriptions by drug ingredient, tamsulosin monotherapy was the most common, and the combination therapy of tamsulosin and mirabegron increased.

CONCLUSION

Alpha blockers were the most commonly prescribed drug for men first diagnosed with BPH in Korea from 2012 to 2017, and tamsulosin was the most common alpha blocker. Prescriptions of combination therapy and mirabegron are gradually increasing.

Testosterone Treatment and the Risk of Prostate Adverse Events

Hypogonadism is a common clinical condition affecting men, with older men having an increased incidence. Clinicians (endocrinologists and urologists) who may be involved in providing testosterone therapy should be familiar with the effects of testosterone on the prostate. Before initiating testosterone therapy, physicians and patients should partake in shared decision-making, including pretreatment testing, risks and benefits of testosterone therapy relating to benign prostatic hyperplasia and lower urinary tract symptoms, a discussion on prostate cancer in those who have not been diagnosed with malignancy, and a thorough discussion with patients who may have a previous diagnosis of prostate cancer.

[Management of lower urinary tract symptoms in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia during COVID-19. results of an all-russian observational study ATLANT]

BACKGROUND

COVID-19 aggravates lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The optimal treatment regimen for patients with this disease during the COVID-19 pandemic is still under question.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the All-Russian observational study of Afalaza in the Treatment of LUTS in pAtieNTs with BPH during COVID-19 (ATLANT) was to obtain additional data on the efficacy and safety of Afalaza in this patient group.

METHOD

s. The study enrolled 73 men aged 46-65 years with LUTS and diagnosed BPH who suffered from COVID-19. All patients received Afalaza for 16 weeks. The dynamics of BHP indicators, erectile function, and quality of life were assessed after 4, 12, and 16 weeks of treatment.

RESULTS

Patients with LUTS/BHP who suffered from COVID-19 had a decrease in the total IPSS score from 21.6+/-8.6 to 6.4+/-2.4 (-70.4%) points after 16 weeks of treatment. There was a direct correlation between COVID-19 duration (and beginning of therapy) and the severity of symptoms after Afalaza treatment. According to the subjective assessment of patients, there was a significant increase in the quality of life and erectile function after 16 weeks of treatment. 9 mild AEs were registered in 12.3% of patients and were unrelated to the study drug.

CONCLUSIONS

Results show that Afalaza may be a perspective drug for the treatment of LUTS/BPH in patients with COVID-19 and be used for this urological disease in the current COVID-19 pandemic.

Tadalafil treatment improves cardiac, renal and lower urinary tract dysfunctions in rats with heart failure

Tadalafil, a phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitor, shown to exert a protection to heart failure (HF) associated damage or lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). Thus, we investigated the contribution of tadalafil chronic treatment in the alterations of LUTS in HF rats. Male rats were subjected to aortocaval fistula model for HF induction. Echocardiography, cystometric, renal function and redox cell balance, as well as concentration-response curves to carbachol, KCl, ATP and frequency-response curves to electrical field stimulation (EFS) were evaluated in Sham, HF, Tadalafil and HF-Tadalafil (12 weeks endpoint) groups. HF group to present increased in left-ventricle (LV) mass and in LV end-diastolic- and LV end-systolic volume, with a decreased ejection fraction. Tadalafil treatment was able to decrease in hypertrophy and improve the LV function restoring cardiac function. For micturition function (in vivo), HF animals shown an increase in basal pressure, threshold pressure, no-voiding contractions and decreased bladder capacity, being that the tadalafil treatment restored the cystometric parameters. Contractile mechanism response (in vitro) to carbachol, KCl, ATP and EFS in the detrusor muscles (DM) were increased in the HF group, when compared to Sham group. However, tadalafil treatment restored the DM hypercontractility in the HF animals. Moreover, renal function as well as the oxidative mechanism was impaired in the HF animals, and the tadalafil treatment improved all renal and oxidative parameters in HF group. Our data shown that tadalafil has potential as multi-therapeutic drug and may be used as a pharmacological strategy for the treatment of cardiovascular, renal and urinary dysfunctions associated with HF.

Discontinuation Rates of Tadalafil Alone and in Combination with a-Blockers in the Treatment of Male Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms with or without Coexisting Erectile Dysfunction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

PURPOSE

We examined the discontinuation rates of tadalafil alone and in combination with a-blockers (ABs) for the treatment of male lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), with or without erectile dysfunction (ED).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We searched the EMBASE, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov databases for studies published until May 15, 2022. The discontinuation rates associated with LUTS medications were subsequently analyzed by meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Forty-four studies, including 1724 discontinued patients, were included. The combined discontinuation rate was 12.78% (95% confidence interval (CI) 9.89-15.98%), and the discontinuation rates because of adverse events and lack of efficacy were 4.56% (95% CI 3.39-5.90%) and 3.30% (95% CI 1.53-5.72%), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The discontinuation rate of tadalafil alone or in combination with ABs for LUTS with or without ED was relatively low and varied according to the study type. Patients receiving monotherapy or combination therapy were similarly likely to abandon treatment. Treatment with a fixed-dose combination was associated with better persistence than with a free-dose combination. These data may help guide clinicians in selecting drug regimens when making decisions. Factors associated with treatment withdrawal need to be determined through high-quality clinical studies to reduce the drug discontinuation rate, which will ultimately reduce healthcare costs and improve patient outcomes.

[An observational randomized study of the efficacy and safety of the drug Longidase, vaginal and rectal suppositories 3000 iu in the treatment of patients with symptoms of the lower urinary tract on the background of benign prostatic hyperplasia]

INTRODUCTION

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is among the most significant urological diseases, and improving the effectiveness of treatment of patients with this disease is one of the main tasks in modern urology. The aim of the study is to evaluate the effectiveness of Longidase in the treatment of men with benign prostatic hyperplasia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study included 120 patients with lower urinary tract symptoms caused by BPH, who were randomly assigned to 2 groups of 60 people. In the main group (MG), Longidaza 3000 ME therapy was performed in combination with tamsulosin. In the comparison group (CG), tamsulosin monotherapy was performed. The patients were examined during 5 visits for 162+/-3 days.

RESULTS

During the treatment period, compliance was 100%, all patients followed the doctors prescriptions, there were no cases of refusal of therapy. In addition, there were no cases of adverse events associated with taking the drug Longidaza. The examination initially revealed symptoms of the lower urinary tract in both groups against the background of prostatic hyperplasia, erectile dysfunction and a decrease in the quality of life. The therapy performed in both groups was effective, as evidenced by a decrease in the average score on the I-PSS scale, an increase in maximum urine flow rate, a decrease in volume of residual urine, which led to an improvement in the quality of life according to the QoL scale. Nevertheless, in the group of patients receiving Longidaza, after 50 days of therapy, there was a more pronounced positive dynamics of both the average score on the I-PSS and QoL scales, and the average maximum urine flow rate value according to the results of uroflowmetry. The differences between the groups according to these indicators were statistically significant (p<0.05). After 50 days of follow-up in GS, the average prostate volume did not change significantly, whereas in MG it decreased, and the differences between the groups were statistically significant (p=0.001). During subsequent visits, there was a tendency to decrease the size of the prostate in the MG, while in the CG there was a moderate increase in the volume of prostate according to ultrasound.

CONCLUSION

Thus, according to the results obtained in the course of this observational study, the drug Longidaza 3000 ME can be effectively used in patients with BPH, prevent the progression of the disease, contribute to the persistent relief of LUTS and improve the quality of life of patients in this category.

Risk factors for failure of long-term dutasteride add-on treatment to alpha-adrenergic antagonist for patients with lower urinary tract symptoms and benign prostatic enlargement

PURPOSE

To identify the clinical factors resulting in the failure of dutasteride add-on treatment to alpha-adrenergic antagonist for patients with lower urinary tract symptoms and benign prostatic enlargement (BPE).

METHODS

We retrospectively surveyed the patient cohort who had been enrolled in the study of dutasteride add-on treatment to alpha-adrenergic antagonist from December 2009 to November 2011. Treatment failure was defined as receiving surgery for BPE or requiring intermittent catheterization or permanent bladder catheter for urinary retention or huge postvoid residual urine. Clinical parameters before dutasteride treatment were compared between the successful and failed group.

RESULTS

Of 92 patients, 23 (25%) were defined as treatment failure at 7-109 months (mean: 38 months) after dutasteride add-on treatment. In the failed group, the patient' age was younger (71.6  ±  6.8 vs 75.4  ±  8.4, p = 0.033), prostatic volume (PV) was larger (76  ±  41 vs 49  ±  26 ml, p = 0.005), voiding efficiency was lower (54  ±  27 vs 68  ±  24%, p = 0.045) and bladder outlet obstruction index was higher (73  ±  30 vs 48  ±  30, p = 0.015). The cox proportional-hazards model indicated that only intravesical prostatic protrusion (IPP) was associated with treatment failure. Non-failure rate at 3 years after dutasteride add-on treatment was 89% with patients of IPP < 13 mm versus 51% with those of IPP ≥ 13 mm (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

IPP ≥ 13 mm is the risk factor resulting in the failure of dutasteride add-on treatment to alpha-adrenergic antagonist. This kind of information should be provided to the patients early in the clinical practice so that they could consider the necessity of BPE surgery in the long run.

Assessment of Frailty and Association With Progression of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Symptoms and Serious Adverse Events Among Men Using Drug Therapy

IMPORTANCE

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in older men can cause lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), which are increasingly managed with medications. Frailty may contribute to both symptom progression and serious adverse events (SAEs), shifting the balance of benefits and harms of drug therapy.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the association between a deficit accumulation frailty index and clinical BPH progression or SAE.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This cohort study used data from the Medical Therapy of Prostatic Symptoms trial, which compared placebo, doxazosin, finasteride, and combination therapy in men with moderate-to-severe LUTS, reduced urinary flow rate, and no prior BPH interventions, hypotension, or elevated prostate-specific antigen. Enrollment was from 1995 to 1998, and follow-up was through 2001. Data were assessed in February 2021.

EXPOSURES

A frailty index (score range, 0-1) using 68 potential deficits collected at baseline was used to categorized men as robust (score ≤0.1), prefrail (score 0.1 to <0.25), or frail (score ≥0.25).

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Primary outcomes were time to clinical BPH progression and time to SAE, as defined in the parent trial. Adjusted hazard ratios (AHRs) were estimated using Cox proportional hazards regressions adjusted for demographic variables, treatment group, measures of obstruction, and comorbidities.

RESULTS

Among 3047 men (mean [SD] age, 62.6 [7.3] years; range, 50-89 years) in this analysis, 745 (24%) were robust, 1824 (60%) were prefrail, and 478 (16%) were frail at baseline. Compared with robust men, frail men were older (age ≥75 years, 12 men [2%] vs 62 men [13%]), less likely to be White (646 men [87%] vs 344 men [72%]), less likely to be married (599 men [80%] vs 342 men [72%]), and less likely to have 16 years or more of education (471 men [63%] vs 150 men [31%]). During mean (SD) follow-up of 4.0 (1.5) years, the incidence rate of clinical BPH progression was 2.2 events per 100 person-years among robust men, 2.9 events per 100 person-years among prefrail men (AHR, 1.36; 95% CI, 1.02-1.83), and 4.0 events per 100 person-years among frail men (AHR, 1.82; 95% CI, 1.24-2.67; linear P = .005). Larger point estimates were seen among men who received doxazosin or combination therapy, although the test for interaction between frailty index and treatment group did not reach statistical significance (P for interaction = .06). Risk of SAE was higher among prefrail and frail men (prefrail vs robust AHR, 1.81; 95% CI, 1.48-2.23; frail vs robust AHR, 2.86; 95% CI, 2.21-3.69; linear P < .001); this association was similar across treatment groups (P for interaction = .76).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

These findings suggest that frailty is independently associated with greater risk of both clinical BPH progression and SAEs. Older frail men with BPH considering initiation of drug therapy should be counseled regarding their higher risk of progression despite combination therapy and their likelihood of experiencing SAEs regardless of treatment choice.

[A place of silodosin in the treatment of LUTS/BPH according to evidence-based medicine and real clinical practice]

Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) are common disorder in older men. The mainstay of conservative treatment for BPH is 1-adrenoblockers. A review of the literature on silodosin, a selective -adrenergic blocker, is discussed in the article. In clinical studies, there was a significant improvement in IPSS scores and maximum urinary flow rate in patients who received silodosin at a daily dose of 8 mg compared to those receiving placebo. It should be noted that silodosin has demonstrated long-term safety and early onset of efficacy. Compelling literature data to support the clinical benefit of silodosin for the treatment of LUTS associated with BPH is presented.

Tadalafil 5 mg Once Daily Improved Each IPSS Subscore, QOL, and Nocturia in Elderly BPH Patients over 70 Years Old in a Real-World Clinical Setting

OBJECTIVE

No reports have evaluated the treatment effects of tadalafil by age group in a positive, noninterventional observational study of Japanese men. The present study aimed to evaluate the treatment effects of tadalafil by age group in a positive, noninterventional observational study of Japanese men. We therefore divided patients into 2 groups about the age of 70 years and investigated the treatment effects of tadalafil regarding voiding and storage functions by age group.

METHODS

Changes from baseline in each parameter (International Prostate Symptom Score [IPSS], quality of life [QOL] score, Overactive Bladder Symptom Score [OABSS], and residual urine volume) at 4, 12, and 24 weeks after initiating tadalafil for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) patients were compared between groups (50-69 years vs. ≥70 years). In addition, side effects of tadalafil were investigated by age group.

RESULTS

In the 50-69 years group, significant improvements from baseline were seen in IPSS total and QOL score for all time points. In addition, significant improvements in IPSS storage subscore from baseline were observed at the 4- and 24-week time points. In the ≥70 years group, significant improvements from baseline were seen in IPSS total, IPSS voiding and storage subscores, and QOL score at each time point.

CONCLUSIONS

Tadalafil 5 mg once daily appeared effective in clinical settings for elderly BPH patients even over 70 years old.

Serenoa repens for the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms due to benign prostatic enlargement: A systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

To assess the effects of Serenoa repens alone or in combination with other phytotherapy compared to placebo in men with LUTS due to benign prostatic enlargement.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Following a registered protocol (CRD42021226655), we searched (December 2020) MEDLINE, CENTRAL, Embase, ClinicalTrials.gov, WHO-ICTRP trials platform and other sources with no restrictions on language, publication date or status. We included randomized controlled trials, and we critically appraised them using the Cochrane Tool for Risk of Bias Assessment (RoB 2). We conducted random-effects meta-analysis when appropriate. The primary outcomes included urinary symptoms score, quality of life, and adverse events. The certainty of the evidence was rated using GRADE.

RESULTS

We included 27 trials with 4,853 participants. S. repens results in little to no difference in urinary symptoms, quality of life, and adverse events at short- and long-term follow-up. S. repens combined with other phytotherapy may slightly reduce urinary symptoms at short-term follow-up, but the results are uncertain. The results on quality of life and adverse events are also very uncertain.

CONCLUSIONS

S. repens alone may result in no clinical benefits for men with LUTS. There is greater uncertainty in the effects of S. repens in combination with other phytotherapy.

The prostaglandin pathway is activated in patients who fail medical therapy for benign prostatic hyperplasia with lower urinary tract symptoms

BACKGROUND

Little is known about how benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) develops and why patients respond differently to medical therapy designed to reduce lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). The Medical Therapy of Prostatic Symptoms (MTOPS) trial randomized men with symptoms of BPH and followed response to medical therapy for up to 6 years. Treatment with a 5α-reductase inhibitor (5ARI) or an alpha-adrenergic receptor antagonist (α-blocker) reduced the risk of clinical progression, while men treated with combination therapy showed a 66% decrease in risk of progressive disease. However, medical therapies for BPH/LUTS are not effective in many patients. The reasons for nonresponse or loss of therapeutic response in the remaining patients over time are unknown. A better understanding of why patients fail to respond to medical therapy may have a major impact on developing new approaches for the medical treatment of BPH/LUTS. Prostaglandins (PG) act on G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), where PGE₂ and PGF₂ elicit smooth muscle contraction. Therefore, we measured PG levels in the prostate tissue of BPH/LUTS patients to assess the possibility that this signaling pathway might explain the failure of medical therapy in BPH/LUTS patients.

METHOD

Surgical BPH (S-BPH) was defined as benign prostatic tissue collected from the transition zone (TZ) of patients who failed medical therapy and underwent surgical intervention to relieve LUTS. Control tissue was termed Incidental BPH (I-BPH). I-BPH was TZ obtained from men undergoing radical prostatectomy for low-volume, low-grade prostatic adenocarcinoma (PCa, Gleason score ≤ 7) confined to the peripheral zone. All TZ tissue was confirmed to be cancer-free. S-BPH patients divided into four subgroups: patients on α-blockers alone, 5ARI alone, combination therapy (α-blockers plus 5ARI), or no medical therapy (none) before surgical resection. I-BPH tissue was subgrouped by prior therapy (either on α-blockers or without prior medical therapy before prostatectomy). We measured prostatic tissue levels of prostaglandins (PGF_2α , PGI₂ , PGE₂ , PGD₂ , and TxA₂ ), quantitative polymerase chain reaction levels of mRNAs encoding enzymes within the PG synthesis pathway, cellular distribution of COX1 (PTGS1) and COX2 (PTGS2), and tested the ability of PGs to contract bladder smooth muscle in an in vitro assay.

RESULTS

All PGs were significantly elevated in TZ tissues from S-BPH patients (n = 36) compared to I-BPH patients (n = 15), regardless of the treatment subgroups. In S-BPH versus I-BPH, mRNA for PG synthetic enzymes COX1 and COX2 were significantly elevated. In addition, mRNA for enzymes that convert the precursor PGH₂ to metabolite PGs were variable: PTGIS (which generates PGI₂ ) and PTGDS (PGD₂ ) were significantly elevated; nonsignificant increases were observed for PTGES (PGE₂ ), AKR1C3 (PGF_2α ), and TBxAS1 (TxA₂ ). Within the I-BPH group, men responding to α-blockers for symptoms of BPH but requiring prostatectomy for PCa did not show elevated levels of COX1, COX2, or PGs. By immunohistochemistry, COX1 was predominantly observed in the prostatic stroma while COX2 was present in scattered luminal cells of isolated prostatic glands in S-BPH. PGE₂ and PGF_2α induced contraction of bladder smooth muscle in an in vitro assay. Furthermore, using the smooth muscle assay, we demonstrated that α-blockers that inhibit alpha-adrenergic receptors do not appear to inhibit PG stimulation of GPCRs in bladder muscle. Only patients who required surgery to relieve BPH/LUTS symptoms showed significantly increased tissue levels of PGs and the PG synthetic enzymes.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment of BPH/LUTS by inhibition of alpha-adrenergic receptors with pharmaceutical α-blockers or inhibiting androgenesis with 5ARI may fail because of elevated paracrine signaling by prostatic PGs that can cause smooth muscle contraction. In contrast to patients who fail medical therapy for BPH/LUTS, control I-BPH patients do not show the same evidence of elevated PG pathway signaling. Elevation of the PG pathway may explain, in part, why the risk of clinical progression in the MTOPS study was only reduced by 34% with α-blocker treatment.

Postoperative medical treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms after benign prostatic hyperplasia surgery. Are we underestimating the problem?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The aim of this study was to determine whether well timed start of medical and surgical treatment of benign prostatic obstruction (BPO) influences the treatment's effectiveness and thus the patients' overall functional outcomes and quality of life.

RECENT FINDINGS

Pharmacological therapy even in high-volume (>80 cm3) BPH typically begins with α-blockers sole and only subsequently are 5ARI added. Several studies showed that acute urinary retention (AUR) developed more frequently in men who suffered severe lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and who did not start combination therapy immediately. Moreover, there are no strict criteria which determine the right time for performing surgery in patients with mild and moderate LUTS, especially when pharmacological therapy fails. However, sometimes, the surgery does not eliminate all the symptoms, as it deals effectively with BPO, but does not treat an overactive bladder. Also, data show that surgery should be performed as soon as possible and be more radical after the first episode of AUR.

SUMMARY

A combination of α-blockers and 5ARI makes for a good starting point where the treatment of high volume BPH is concerned. Ideally, surgery should be performed immediately or as soon as possible in patients with the first episode of AUR and 'anatomic' BPH tissue removal is preferable (dissection of tissue along the prostate capsule to remove its maximum volume).