Abbreviation for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia with Obstructive Symptoms
The correct abbreviation for benign prostatic hyperplasia with obstructive symptoms is LUTS/BPH or BPO (benign prostatic obstruction). 1
Understanding the Terminology
The American Urological Association (AUA) guidelines clearly define the terminology related to benign prostatic hyperplasia and its associated symptoms:
BPH - Benign prostatic hyperplasia: A histological diagnosis referring to the proliferation of glandular epithelial tissue, smooth muscle, and connective tissue within the prostatic transition zone 1
BPE - Benign prostatic enlargement: Refers to the physical enlargement of the prostate gland 1
BPO - Benign prostatic obstruction: Used when obstruction has been proven by pressure flow studies or is highly suspected from flow rates when the gland is enlarged 1
LUTS/BPH - Lower urinary tract symptoms attributed to benign prostatic hyperplasia: The preferred term when referring to LUTS among men for whom an alternative cause is not apparent 1
BOO - Bladder outlet obstruction: The generic term for all forms of obstruction to the bladder outlet, including BPO 1
Important Clinical Considerations
The AUA guidelines specifically caution against imprecise terminology such as "BPH patient," "symptomatic BPH," "clinical BPH," and "BPH treatment" as these terms cause confusion 1. Instead:
When referring specifically to obstructive symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate, BPO (benign prostatic obstruction) is the most accurate term 1
When referring to the constellation of lower urinary tract symptoms in men with presumed BPH, LUTS/BPH is the preferred terminology 1
Clinical Implications
Using precise terminology is important for:
- Accurate diagnosis and treatment planning
- Proper communication between healthcare providers
- Distinguishing between histological BPH (which may be asymptomatic) and symptomatic conditions requiring treatment
- Avoiding unnecessary treatments for patients with LUTS from other causes
The distinction matters because treatment approaches differ based on whether a patient has true obstructive symptoms (BPO) versus general lower urinary tract symptoms that may have multiple etiologies.