The prostate gland is located just below the bladder. It surrounds the urethra - the tube through which urine flows from the bladder to the end of the penis. As the prostate enlarges the urethra becomes narrowed and elongated. As a result, the bladder is forced to work harder to expel the urine. The bladder can compensate quite well if the obstruction is not too severe, but with significant and prolonged blockage, serious damage can occur to the bladder and eventually even to the kidneys.
More serious symptoms can include urinary bleeding, infection, and complete inability to pass urine.
The evaluation of patients with prostatism is usually not very time consuming, uncomfortable or expensive. The examination can detect a prostate suspicious for cancer, permitting early diagnosis and cure. Laboratory tests usually include a urinalysis and a few simple blood tests. Urine flow rate is measured and sometimes a cystoscopic examination is performed. In some patients an ultrasound or x-rays of the kidneys are obtained and occasionally, an ultrasound of the prostate.