Clinical meaning
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) results from nonmalignant proliferation of stromal and epithelial cells within the prostate transition zone, driven primarily by dihydrotestosterone (DHT) signaling through androgen receptors. DHT is converted from testosterone by the enzyme 5-alpha reductase. Prostatic enlargement causes bladder outlet obstruction through static (tissue mass compressing urethra) and dynamic (alpha-adrenergic smooth muscle tone) mechanisms. Chronic obstruction leads to detrusor hypertrophy, decreased compliance, and eventually decompensation. Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is the gold-standard surgical treatment for refractory BPH. The nurse monitors vital signs, fluid balance, catheter output, and reports complications such as bleeding or signs of TURP syndrome to the nursing team.
Exam relevance
Risk factors: - Age >50 years (prevalence increases with age) - Family history of BPH - Obesity and metabolic syndrome - Diabetes mellitus - Sedentary lifestyle - Elevated DHT levels - Dietary factors (high fat intake) - Race/ethnicity (higher prevalence in Black men)