Understanding Lab Tests for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
Written by Private MD Labs Medical Writing Team • Last Updated: September 8, 2025
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a common, non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that affects many men as they age. While BPH is primarily diagnosed through physical examination and symptom assessment, there is no single blood test that definitively diagnoses BPH. However, blood testing plays a crucial role in evaluating prostate health, ruling out other conditions like prostate cancer, and monitoring hormonal factors that contribute to prostate enlargement.
Top Recommended Test
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) (MALES ONLY)
This test measures PSA levels in the blood. BPH can cause elevated PSA levels due to the enlarged prostate producing more of this protein. While not diagnostic for BPH specifically, it's essential for distinguishing between benign enlargement and potential malignancy.
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Why Blood Testing is Important for BPH
Blood tests are fundamental for assessing overall prostate health and helping healthcare providers distinguish between BPH and more serious conditions. These tests can measure prostate-specific markers, evaluate hormonal influences, and provide valuable information to guide treatment decisions and monitor prostate health over time.
Other Relevant Tests
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA), Free and Total (MALES ONLY)
This comprehensive test measures both free and total PSA levels. In BPH, the ratio of free PSA to total PSA is typically higher because benign prostate cells tend to produce more unbound (free) PSA. This ratio helps differentiate between benign conditions and cancer.
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Dihydrotestosterone, (DHT) LC/MS/MS
This test measures DHT levels, a hormone that plays a key role in prostate growth. Elevated DHT can stimulate prostate cell growth, leading to the enlargement characteristic of BPH. Understanding DHT levels can help guide hormone-related treatment approaches.
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Prostatic Acid Phosphatase (PAP), Serum
While primarily associated with prostate cancer detection, PAP levels can also be elevated in BPH cases. This test provides additional information about prostate activity and can help in the comprehensive assessment of prostate health.
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Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA), Ultrasensitive, Post Prostatectomy (MALES ONLY)
This highly sensitive PSA test can detect very low levels of PSA. While typically used for post-surgical monitoring, elevated levels may indicate BPH-related prostate enlargement and help in ongoing prostate health assessment.
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Understanding Your Results
It's important to remember that elevated prostate markers don't automatically indicate cancer. BPH commonly causes changes in these blood markers, and your healthcare provider will interpret results in the context of your symptoms, age, and overall health. Regular monitoring through blood testing can help track changes over time and guide appropriate treatment decisions.
Important Considerations
The information here is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment of BPH or any prostate-related concerns.
