The need for an international classification of benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Abstract

An international classification of patients suffering from benign prostatic hyperplasia is essential, as we are currently unable to categorize patients there-by allowing application of the most appropriate treatment as a function of selected items. We have adopted 4 items: weight of the prostate (P); quality of life index (Q); international prostatic symptom score (S), and maximum flow rate (F). 112 patients were analyzed according to this classification and the results are presented. We have tried to develop a simple, easy to remember classification in order to easily allocate a given patient to a particular category. This proposed classification corresponds to a real 'Prostate Who's Who', which should be evaluated and improved to act as a working basis for an international classification of benign prostatic hyperplasia.