A retrospective review of canine benign prostatic hyperplasia with and without prostatitis

Abstract

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is the most common prostatic disorder in older intact male dogs, but despite its prevalence, there
are inconsistencies in clinical diagnosis and treatment. Although prostate size was historically considered the hallmark feature of BPH
in men, currently, there is only a weak correlation between prostate size and clinical severity. We performed a retrospective cohort study
with the primary objective of assessing clinical signs, ultrasonographic findings, treatments, and outcomes in dogs diagnosed with BPH,
with and without concurrent prostatitis. We reviewed medical records and obtained data on presenting signs, prostatic imaging, and
prevalence of concurrent bacteriuria. Prostate size was determined by ultrasonography and compared to the calculated expected size
based on patient age and weight. Treatment and outcome were described for the cases with a minimum 2 months follow-up. Median age
of dogs diagnosed with BPH was 8 years. Clinical signs were present in 16/25 dogs and scored as mild to moderate (median Zambelli’s
Symptom Index for BPH score 12). The median prostatic volume to body mass ratio was 1.60 mm3/kg. Prostate size did not correlate
with the symptom severity. Concurrent bacteriuria was confirmed in 4/25 cases via bacterial culture and/or cytology. Treatments pursued
and responses were only available in a subpopulation of dogs (n = 9) and were highly variable. Studies are needed to determine if
current treatment options for BPH in dogs resolve associated clinical signs in addition to reducing prostate size.