[LH-RH agonists as therapeutic alternative in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and surgical contraindication. Long term follow up].

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study is to describe the benefits afforded by treatment with LH-RH analogues to patients with physical or mental disorders that consult for acute urinary retention or urinary symptomatology secondary to benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH).

METHODS

52 patients with BPH in whom surgery was contraindicated due to poor mental or physical condition were treated with LH-RH analogue for six consecutive months a year for a period of three years. Thirty-eight patients had acute urinary retention and 14 had prostatic symptomatology.

RESULTS

Serum testosterone fell below 11 nmol/l. No significant changes in PSA levels were observed. Assessment of the prostate by DRE and US showed prostatic size had diminished. Voiding and postvoid residual urine improved and the bladder catheter could be withdrawn.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results show that treatment with LH-RH analogue can reduce the urinary symptoms and improve the quality of life of patients with BPH in whom surgery is contraindicated.