Management of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Attributed to Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: AUA Guideline (2026) Part I: Presentation and Evaluation.
Academic Article
Overview
abstract
PURPOSE: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) refers to the proliferation of glandular and stromal components within the transition zone of the prostate. Non-neurogenic lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) can be due to bladder, prostate, urethral, or other pathology. Bothersome LUTS is the main reason patients seek treatment and generally drives management decisions. As such, shared decision-making plays a critical role in the initiation and escalation of treatment. This Guideline covers the evaluation and treatment of LUTS/BPH. The summary presented herein represents Part I of the three-part series dedicated to Management of LUTS/BPH. Please refer to Parts II and III and the full version of the Guideline for additional information on this topic. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The systematic review that informs this Guideline was based on searches in Ovid MEDLINE, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews through January 2025. Update searches were conducted on December 15, 2025. Literature searches were limited to studies of medical therapies published since 2009 and surgical studies published since 2014. The searches were supplemented by reviewing electronic database reference lists of relevant articles. Criteria for inclusion and exclusion of studies were based on the Key Questions and the populations, interventions, comparators, outcomes, timing, types of studies and settings (PICOTS) of interest developed by the Panel. RESULTS: The recommendations herein address initial presentation, evaluation, and initial management of patients with LUTS/BPH. Where possible, evidence levels were assigned along with relevant supporting text to assist clinicians when encountering men with LUTS/BPH. Standard evaluation is established with appropriate tests and shared decision-making. CONCLUSIONS: The presentation, evaluation, and initial management of patients presenting with LUTS/BPH is straightforward. In addition to patient history and physical examination, the recommendations herein include the appropriate use of tests and patient counseling.
