The evaluation of benign prostatic hyperplasia begins with a medical history and physical examination. Benign prostatic hyperplasia may be detected during a rectal exam: the prostate gland is enlarged.

Additional tests may be performed, in order to determine the size of the prostate.

Tests that may be used to evaluate benign prostatic hyperplasia include:

• Prostate specific antigen blood test
• Urinalysis
• Urine culture
• Ultrasound
• Urine flow rate studies
• Voiding pressure studies
• Prostate biopsy

Less common tests used to evaluate benign prostatic hyperplasia include:

• Sigmoidoscopy
• Cystoscopy
• Intravenous pyelogram (IVP)
• Cystourethrogram