Appropriate workup for lower urinary tract symptoms in men

Abstract

For most men with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), the initial workup should consist of a careful history and physical examination, with or without simple adjunctive tests (e.g., uroflowometry, post-void residual, and frequency volume charts). Based on this basic workup, one is usually able to make an informed selection of initial treatment or watchful waiting. Urodynamics, cystoscopy and imaging are most useful in select cases when a specific reason is identified, the diagnosis is uncertain or when patients have failed simple initial treatments and seek further therapy.