Pathogenesis and medical management of benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia is an almost universal disorder of aging males. The disease is heterogeneous with respect to the histology, size, symptoms, and response to medical management. Current medical therapies are based upon the knowledge of the pathophysiology of the disease and include hormonal therapies and alpha(1)-adrenergic blockade. Although there are at present no prognostic indicators of response to therapy, future studies may help delineate those patients who will most benefit from the various forms of treatment.