What could be a possible complication of untreated benign prostatic hyperplasia?

Study for the Bates’ Guide to Physical Examination and History Taking Exam. Prepare with multiple-choice questions, featuring hints and explanations. Get ready for success!

Untreated benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) can lead to a range of complications, with urinary tract infections being a notable consequence. As BPH causes the prostate to enlarge, it can obstruct the flow of urine from the bladder, leading to incomplete bladder emptying. This urinary retention creates an environment conducive to bacterial growth, significantly increasing the risk of urinary tract infections.

In contrast, while kidney stones can be secondary to urinary retention related to BPH, they are not as direct a complication as UTIs. Testicular cancer is generally not associated with BPH and arises from different pathophysiological processes. Bladder rupture, although a severe condition, is a far less common outcome compared to infections and usually occurs in cases of severe trauma or obstruction when the bladder is over-distended. Therefore, urinary tract infection stands out as a common and significant complication of untreated benign prostatic hyperplasia.

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