Glossary

5α -reductase (5AR)
An enzyme that changes the male hormone testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is thought to be the main cause of an enlarged prostate.

Alpha blockers
A type of drug used to reduce the symptoms of an enlarged prostate. These drugs have not been shown to shrink the size of the prostate or reduce the risk of prostate surgery. These work by relaxing the muscle tissue in the bladder and prostate. This allows urine to flow more easily.

Acute urinary retention (AUR)
When the prostate becomes so enlarged that it completely blocks urine from coming out of the bladder. Acute urinary retention is considered a medical emergency requiring urgent medical attention.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
Medical term for Enlarging Prostate.

Digital Rectal Exam (DRE) – When a doctor inserts a gloved and lubricated finger into the anus to determine if the prostate is enlarged or if there is anything unusual on the surface of the prostate.

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT)
The male hormone believed to be mainly responsible for enlargement of the prostate gland. Made from testosterone by an enzyme called 5α -reductase (5AR).

Enlarging Prostate: A common condition in which the prostate grows and places pressure on the urethra causing bothersome urinary issues

Prostate
A male gland that manufactures fluids important to the health of the semen (seminal fluid).

Prostate Cancer: The most common cancer diagnosed in men today

Prostatitis
Inflammation or infection of the prostate gland usually caused by bacteria

Prostate specific antigen (PSA)
A protein made by the prostate gland.

Prostate specific antigen (PSA) test
A blood test that checks for the amount of PSA in your blood. Because PSA levels rise wherever there is a disturbance to the prostate, this test can help alert physicians of conditions like prostatitis, enlarged prostate, and prostate cancer. Men with PSA levels over about 1.4 ng/mL may have a greater chance of problems from enlarged prostate.

Saw palmetto
An herbal medication used for treating enlarged prostate.

Urethra
The tube that carries urine and semen out of the body.