56yr old male c/o burning micturation, with increasing frequency and hesitancy. Following Radiograph from intravenous pyelogram is taken. What is the most likely diagnosis?
**Core Concept**
The patient's symptoms of burning micturation, increasing frequency, and hesitancy are suggestive of an obstructive uropathy, likely caused by an enlarged prostate gland. This condition is characterized by the gradual obstruction of urine flow due to the enlargement of the prostate gland, leading to symptoms such as difficulty starting urination (hesitancy), weak urine flow, and a sense of incomplete bladder emptying.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The intravenous pyelogram (IVP) is a radiographic study that uses contrast material to visualize the urinary tract. In the case of an enlarged prostate, the IVP would show a dilated posterior urethra and a thin, stretched-out urethral wall. The symptoms of burning micturation, increasing frequency, and hesitancy, combined with the radiographic findings, are consistent with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). BPH is a common condition in older men, characterized by the growth of the prostate gland, which can compress the urethra and lead to obstructive symptoms.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because it does not match the radiographic findings or the patient's symptoms. A stricture of the urethra would likely cause a sudden onset of symptoms, rather than the gradual progression seen in BPH.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because it is not consistent with the patient's symptoms or the radiographic findings. A bladder tumor would likely cause hematuria (blood in the urine) and irritative symptoms, rather than obstructive symptoms.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because it is not consistent with the patient's symptoms or the radiographic findings. A pelvic mass would likely cause a palpable mass on physical examination, rather than the obstructive symptoms seen in BPH.
**Option D:** This option is incorrect because it is not consistent with the patient's symptoms or the radiographic findings. A spinal cord injury would likely cause a sudden onset of symptoms, rather than the gradual progression seen in BPH.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is that BPH is a common condition in older men, and the symptoms can be subtle at first. However, if left untreated, BPH can lead to complications such as urinary retention, bladder stones, and kidney damage.
**Correct Answer:** C. Benign prostatic hyperplasia.