Free Module 5 · Prostate and urinary symptoms

Digital rectal exam

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Introduction

What this lesson covers The digital rectal exam is part of the clinical evaluation of the patient with prostatic symptoms.
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Video lesson

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Summary

What do we assess?

  • Approximate size.
  • Symmetry.
  • Consistency.
  • Surface.
  • Presence of nodules or induration.
  • Pain.

A prostate consistent with benign enlargement is usually described as enlarged, smooth, symmetric, and of fibroelastic consistency.

⚠️ Warning sign

A hard, irregular, or nodular prostate requires considering other pathologies, especially prostate cancer.

Important limitation

The digital rectal exam primarily evaluates the posterior and peripheral region of the prostate.

BPH develops predominantly in the transition zone.

Key concept

An apparently normal digital rectal exam does not exclude BPH.

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PDF

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Practical algorithm

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Clinical case

Content pending upload Progressive presentation of the case — the student makes decisions as it unfolds.
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Self-assessment

Questions pending upload 5–10 multiple-choice questions on this lesson.
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References

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