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Hyperplasia Vs. Hypertrophy

As you research prostatic enlargement you may come across two similar terms Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia and Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy. Both can be shortened to BPH and the terms are of often used interchangeably by patients and clinicians alike. While both represent an increase in the size of the prostate, the two phrases do have slightly different meanings.

Hyperplasia involves the growth in the number of prostatic cells. Each individual cell remains roughly normal in size, but the sheer increase in the number of these cells causes the prostate to expand. Hypertrophy, on the other hand, represents the growth of the size of each cell – no significant number of new cells are formed.

In-office treatment for BPH, whether caused by hyperplasia or hypertrophy, is the same. Your urologist will identify the specific areas of prostatic growth that are impinging on the urethra – the ones that cause the symptoms associated with BPH. Through the use of high intensity microwaves (Transurethral Microwave Thermotherapy – TUMT) or radiofrequency waves (Transurethral Needle Ablation), the growth is treated at its source, quickly and effectively.

Whether hyperplasia or hypertrophy, the first steps are the same. Visit your urologist at the first signs of BPH as this will allow you the greatest number of treatment options.