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Irish Journal of Medical Science (1971 -)

Published in:

01-09-2009 | Original Article

The value of appropriate assessment prior to specialist referral in men with prostatic symptoms

Authors: M. R. Quinlan, B. J. O’Daly, M. F. O’Brien, S. Gardner, G. Lennon, D. W. Mulvin, D. M. Quinlan

Published in: Irish Journal of Medical Science (1971 -) | Issue 3/2009

Abstract

Background

Referrals to Urology OPD of men with a likely diagnosis of BPH are common.

Aims

To review referrals to OPD of men with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) to establish how many could have been managed without specialist assessment.

Methods

We reviewed records of 200 male patients referred to OPD with LUTS. We assessed whether the referral source had performed digital rectal examination (DRE), International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), Bother Score or PSA level.

Results

74% of patients were referred by GPs. In 31.5% of cases DRE was performed prior to referral. One GP had completed an IPSS, none a Bother Score. 96% had a PSA checked before OPD. Ultimately, 88.5% of our patients were diagnosed with BPH.

Conclusions

With better pre-assessment in the form of DRE, IPSS and Bother Score, allied to a PSA check, many patients with LUTS could be managed in a primary care setting.

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Title: The value of appropriate assessment prior to specialist referral in men with prostatic symptoms
Authors: M. R. Quinlan
B. J. O’Daly
M. F. O’Brien
S. Gardner
G. Lennon
D. W. Mulvin
D. M. Quinlan
Publication date: 01-09-2009
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: Irish Journal of Medical Science (1971 -) / Issue 3/2009
Print ISSN: 0021-1265
Electronic ISSN: 1863-4362
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11845-009-0337-1

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Background

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