Global Practice Patterns in the Evaluation of Non-Obstructive Azoospermia: Results of a World-Wide Survey and Expert Recommendations.

PURPOSE: Non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) represents the persistent absence of sperm in ejaculate without obstruction, stemming from diverse disease processes. This survey explores global practices in NOA diagnosis, comparing them with guidelines and offering expert recommendations. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A 56-item questionnaire survey on NOA diagnosis and management was conducted globally from July to September 2022. This paper focuses on part 1, evaluating NOA diagnosis. Data from 367 participants across 49 countries were analyzed descriptively, with a Delphi process used for expert recommendations. RESULTS: Of 336 eligible responses, most participants were experienced attending physicians (70.93%). To diagnose azoospermia definitively, 81.7% requested two semen samples. Commonly ordered hormone tests included serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) (97.0%), total testosterone (92.9%), and luteinizing hormone (86.9%). Genetic testing was requested by 66.6%, with karyotype analysis (86.2%) and Y chromosome microdeletions (88.3%) prevalent. Diagnostic testicular biopsy, distinguishing obstructive azoospermia (OA) from NOA, was not performed by 45.1%, while 34.6% did it selectively. Differentiation relied on physical examination (76.1%), serum hormone profiles (69.6%), and semen tests (68.1%). Expectations of finding sperm surgically were higher in men with normal FSH, larger testes, and a history of sperm in ejaculate. CONCLUSIONS: This expert survey, encompassing 367 participants from 49 countries, unveils congruence with recommended guidelines in NOA diagnosis. However, noteworthy disparities in practices suggest a need for evidence-based, international consensus guidelines to standardize NOA evaluation, addressing existing gaps in professional recommendations.

The Degree of Hydronephrosis as an Indicator of the Necessity for Ureteric Dilatation during Ureteroscopic Lithotripsy.

During rigid ureteroscopic lithotripsy, it is often encountered that the ureter is difficult to access. Attempts to advance the ureteroscope make the surgery more difficult. This study evaluated the preoperative predictive factors associated with difficult ureteral access (difficult ureter (DU)) during URS and assessed if clinical outcomes differed according to the degree of DU. This study identified 217 patients who underwent rigid ureteroscopic (URS) lithotripsy for the management of ureter stones between June 2017 and July 2021 in a tertiary hospital in Korea. In this group, preoperative factors were identified using univariate and multiple logistic regression analyses that could predict the degree of DU. Additionally, we also evaluated differences in treatment outcomes depending on the degree of DU. In 50 URS cases (22.0%), ureteral access using a ureteroscope was difficult. In the univariate and multivariate analyses, the degree of hydronephrosis was associated with the degree of DU. Treatment outcomes, extended operation times, low stone-free rate, postoperative pain, and secondary treatment were also significantly associated with the degree of DU. Clinicians can counsel patients with a lesser degree of hydronephrosis and approach their management accordingly.

Clinical recommendations on penile reconstructive and prosthetic surgery: a consensus statement from the Asia-Pacific Society of Sexual Medicine.

Introduction: Penile reconstructive and prosthetic surgery remains a highly specialized field where potential complications can be devastating, and unrealistic patient expectations can often be difficult to manage. Furthermore, surgical practice can vary depending on locoregional expertise and sociocultural factors. Methods: The Asia Pacific Society of Sexual Medicine (APSSM) panel of experts reviewed contemporary evidence regarding penile reconstructive and prosthetic surgery with an emphasis on key issues relevant to the Asia-Pacific (AP) region and developed a consensus statement and set of clinical practice recommendations on behalf of the APSSM. The Medline and EMBASE databases were searched using the following terms: "penile prosthesis implant," "Peyronie's disease," "penile lengthening," "penile augmentation," "penile enlargement," "buried penis," "penile disorders," "penile trauma," "transgender," and "penile reconstruction" between January 2001 and June 2022. A modified Delphi method was undertaken, and the panel evaluated, agreed, and provided consensus statements on clinically relevant penile reconstructive and prosthetic surgery, namely (1) penile prosthesis implantation, (2) Peyronie's disease, (3) penile trauma, (4) gender-affirming (phalloplasty) surgery, and (5) penile esthetic (length and/or girth enlargement) surgery. Main outcome measures: Outcomes were specific statements and clinical recommendations according to the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine, and if clinical evidence is lacking, a consensus agreement is adopted. The panel provided statements on clinical aspects of surgical management in penile reconstructive and prosthetic surgery. Results: There is a variation in surgical algorithms in patients based on sociocultural characteristics and the availability of local resources. Performing preoperative counseling and obtaining adequate informed consent are paramount and should be conducted to discuss various treatment options, including the pros and cons of each surgical intervention. Patients should be provided with information regarding potential complications related to surgery, and strict adherence to safe surgical principles, preoperative optimization of medical comorbidities and stringent postoperative care are important to improve patient satisfaction rates. For complex patients, surgical intervention should ideally be referred and performed by expert high-volume surgeons to maximize clinical outcomes. Clinical implications: Due to the uneven distribution of surgical access and expertise across the AP region, development of relevant comprehensive surgical protocols and regular training programs is desirable. Strengths and Limitations: This consensus statement covers comprehensive penile reconstructive and prosthetic surgery topics and is endorsed by the APSSM. The variations in surgical algorithms and lack of sufficient high-level evidence in these areas could be stated as a limitation. Conclusion: This APSSM consensus statement provides clinical recommendations on the surgical management of various penile reconstructive and prosthetic surgeries. The APSSM advocates for surgeons in AP to individualize surgical options based on patient condition(s) and needs, surgeon expertise, and local resources.

Quisqualis indica extract for men with lower urinary tract symptoms: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Quisqualis indica in men with moderate lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 135 subjects with International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) of 8-19 were randomized in 2 centers from June 2018 to April 2019. Patients were assigned into one of the three groups: a low-dose group (LG, 1,000 mg Q. indica), a high-dose group (HG, 2,000 mg Q. indica) or a placebo group (PG). The primary endpoint was the change of IPSS at the end of treatment from baseline. Secondary end points included the changes of prostate specific antigen, testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax), postvoid residual volume (PVR) and International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5), with drug safety. RESULTS: 113 patients were able to finish the study. Compared to the PG, total IPSS in the LG and the HG was significantly improved at 6 weeks and 12 weeks. For IPSS subscores, LG showed improvements in all except for urgency and quality of life at 6 weeks. HG showed improvements in incomplete emptying and frequency at 6 weeks and 12 weeks along with improvements in intermittency, straining, and quality of life at 12 weeks. For IIEF-5 subscores, orgasmic function and overall satisfaction improved in HG when compared to PG at 12 weeks. Lastly, increase of Qmax and decrease of PVR was observed at 6 weeks in LG. CONCLUSIONS: 12-week treatment with Q. indica has a therapeutic effect and is well tolerated in patients with LUTS.

Single-dose amikacin plus 7 days of amoxicillin/clavulanate to treat acute cystitis caused by extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli: A retrospective cohort study.

PURPOSE: Treatment options for urinary tract infection (UTI) caused by extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing organisms are limited other than carbapenem. Accordingly, clinicians should investigate alternative antimicrobial options for limited infection. This study was performed to assess the efficacy of single-dose amikacin and a 7-day oral regimen of amoxicillin/clavulanate for the treatment of acute cystitis caused by ESBL-producing Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A single-dose amikacin and 7-day oral amoxicillin/clavulanate regimen was given to all patients with acute cystitis or recurrent cystitis between May 2016 and October 2018. We conducted a retrospective cohort study assessing the efficacy of this regimen for the treatment of UTI due to ESBL-producing organisms. Both clinical and laboratory efficacy were assessed a minimum of 7 days and a maximum of 14 days after the completion of treatment. RESULTS: A total of 47 patients were enrolled in this study. E. coli and K. pneumoniae were isolated in 44 patients (93.6%) and 3 patients (6.4%), respectively. Of the 47 enrolled, 39 patients (83.0%) showed sterile culture results on follow-up. Thirty-seven patients (78.7%) showed improvement of symptoms. Of 8 patients who showed bacterial persistence, 4 patients showed ESBL-producing E. coli, whereas 4 patients showed non-ESBL E. coli on follow-up cultures. During follow-up, 12 patients experienced the recurrence of acute cystitis with a median recurrence period of 2.5 months. CONCLUSIONS: The combination of amoxicillin/clavulanate and amikacin may be an alternative to carbapenem treatment in patients with acute cystitis caused by ESBL-producing Enterobacteriaceae.

Increased incidence of bladder cancer with metabolically unhealthy status: analysis from the National Health Checkup database in Korea.

We assessed the association between metabolic health status and the incidence of bladder cancer using nationally representative data from the National Health Insurance System and National Health Checkups (NHC) databases in South Korea. Data for 11,781,768 men who participated in the NHC between 2009 and 2012 were analysed. The normal-weight and physically obese categories were defined as body mass indexes (BMI) < 25 and ≥25 kg/m2, respectively. Metabolically obese was defined as the presence of ≥3 components of metabolic syndrome. The participants were stratified into metabolically healthy, normal-weight (MHNW); metabolically obese, normal-weight (MONW); metabolically healthy, obese (MHO); metabolically obese, obese (MOO). Multivariate-adjusted Cox regression analysis was conducted to examine the association between metabolic health status and the incidence of bladder cancer. The study participants included 17,777 men newly registered with bladder cancer. Analysis according to metabolic health status classification revealed a higher multivariable-adjusted hazard ratio in the MOO, MONW group than in the MHO group (1.307 [95% CI: 1.258-1.358], 1.183 [95% CI: 1.137-1.231] and 1.066 [95% CI: 1.017-1.119], respectively; hazard ratios given relative to MHNW group) We found an association between metabolic health status and the incidence of bladder cancer, with an increasing risk according to the number of metabolic health status components.

Diagnostic Performance of the Prostate Cancer Antigen 3 Test in Prostate Cancer: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: To explore the diagnostic accuracy of prostate cancer antigen 3 (PCA3) test for the diagnosis of prostate cancer in this systematic review and meta-analysis. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A systematic literature search of Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases up to October 2019 was performed. The sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic odds ratio with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. The summary receiver operator characteristic graph came from individual studies. We also conducted metaregression analysis to identify the moderated factors. RESULTS: Across 54 studies (17,575 patients), the pooled sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic odds ratio of PCA3 were 0.71 (95% CI, 0.67-0.74), 0.68 (95% CI, 0.63-0.74), and 5.28 (95% CI, 4.28-6.51), respectively. The area under the summary receiver operator characteristic curve was 0.75 (95% CI, 0.71-0.79). CONCLUSION: Pooled data indicated that the PCA3 test had moderate sensitivity and specificity in the diagnosis of prostate cancer. PCA3 could be used as a noninvasive method for the diagnosis of prostate cancer.

Scrotal septum detachment during penile plication to compensate for loss of penile length compared with conventional surgical technique.

Purpose: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of penile elongation featuring simple scrotal septum detachment from the penile base to compensate for the loss of penile length during penile plication in patients with Peyronie's disease compared with conventional penile plication. Materials and Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 38 patients (24-75 years of age) with Peyronie's disease who underwent penile plication with or without our novel technique from January 2009 to May 2018. Penile elongation was achieved by release and detachment of the scrotal septum from the penile base to the level of the scrotal fat tissue. The objective outcome of change in stretched penile length (SPL) and the subjective outcome of patient perception of postoperative penile length were compared between groups. Any postoperative complications were recorded. Results: Of the 38 patients, 16 underwent penile plication with scrotal septum detachment (elongation group) and 22 underwent penile plication only (conventional group). The postoperative mean SPL was increased in the elongation group and decreased in the conventional group (1.2±1.3 cm vs. -0.5±0.3 cm, p<0.001). Fourteen of 16 patients (87.5%) in the elongation group reported perceived penile lengthening after surgery, whereas 17/22 patients (77.3%) in the conventional group complained of penile shortening. We encountered no procedure-related complications such as hematoma, infection, or necrosis in either group. Conclusions: Simple detachment of the scrotal septum from the penile base afforded both objective and subjective penile elongation without any severe complications compared with conventional penile plication.

Treatment persistence with a fixed-dose combination of tadalafil (5 mg) and tamsulosin (0.4 mg) and reasons for early discontinuation in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia and erectile dysfunction.

Purpose: The primary aim of this study was to assess treatment persistence with a fixed-dose combination (FDC) of tadalafil (5 mg) and tamsulosin (0.4 mg). This study also evaluated the reasons for early treatment discontinuation. Materials and Methods: This retrospective observational study included patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia and erectile dysfunction who started an FDC treatment of tadalafil (5 mg) and tamsulosin (0.4 mg) between July 2017 and February 2018. Treatment persistence and reasons for early discontinuation were evaluated during the first 6 months. The cumulative discontinuation rate and differences in various parameters were assessed using Kaplan-Meier analysis and the log-rank test, respectively. Factors related to persistence were analyzed using a Cox proportional hazard model. Results: Overall, 97 patients were included in the study. The cumulative persistence rate at 30, 90, and 180 days was 88.7%, 66.0%, and 54.6%, respectively. The cumulative persistence over 6 months differed significantly according to the administration of FDC therapy (log-rank p=0.005) and age (log-rank p=0.024). Younger patients (odds ratio, 2.049; p=0.021) and treatment-naive patients (odds ratio, 2.461; p=0.006) were more likely to discontinue therapy within 6 months. The common reasons for discontinuing therapy were side effects (63.6%) and perceived poor efficacy (22.7%). Conclusions: Side effects were reported to be the main reason for treatment discontinuation. Thus, to improve compliance for a once-daily FDC of tadalafil (5 mg) and tamsulosin (0.4 mg), it is recommended to select patients who show adaptation to a combination of α-blockers and phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors prior to FDC treatment.

Does urinary tract infection caused by extended-spectrum ß-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli show same antibiotic resistance when it recurs?

This study was performed to evaluate what percentage of urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by extended spectrum ß-lactamase (ESBL)-producing strains recurs with ESBL-producing strains during follow up and to assess the risk factors for recurrence with ESBL-producing Escherichia coli strains on subsequent first recurrence episode. We enrolled female patients with UTIs caused by ESBL-producing E. coli between May 2012 and December 2015, who were longitudinally followed up for at least 24 months. Among the 206 patients with ESBL positive UTI, 180 completed the study. 60 (60/180, 33.3%) of patient with first episode of UTI caused by ESBL-producing E. coli experienced recurrent UTIs during follow up. Of 60 patients, 43 (43/60, 71.7%) recurred with ESBL-producing E. coli on the first UTI recurrence episode. On multivariate analysis, the time to recurrence and history of cephalosporin usage in the last 6 months were identified as risk factors for recurrence with ESBL-producing E. coli per se (odds ratio [OR] = 0.9, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.8-1.0, p = 0.030 and OR = 27.0, 95% CI 2.4-299.8, p = 0.007, respectively). These findings show that high proportion of patient with UTI caused by ESBL-producing E. coli recurs with ESBL-producing E. coli on subsequent recurrence episode. While result of antibiotic susceptibility cannot be identified on the visit day empirical treatment should be referred to the antecedent antibiotic resistance profile in patients whose previous UTIs were due to ESBL-producing strains.

Incidence of Prostate Cancer according to Metabolic Health Status: a Nationwide Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND: We assessed the association between metabolic health status and incidence of prostate cancer using the National Health Check-ups (NHC) database of Korea. METHODS: A total of 11,771,252 men who participated in the NHC between 2009 and 2012 and 56,552 men who were newly diagnosed with prostate cancer were analyzed. Normal-weight and obesity were defined as body mass index (BMI) < 25 kg/m2 and ≥ 25 kg/m2, respectively. Metabolic obesity was defined as the presence ≥ 3 components of the metabolic syndrome. Participants were stratified into 4 groups: metabolically healthy, normal-weight; metabolically obese, normal-weight (MONW); metabolically healthy, obese (MHO); and metabolically obese, obese. Multivariate Cox regression analysis was performed to examine the relationship between metabolic health status and incidence of prostate cancer. RESULTS: During a mean 5.4 ± 1.1 years of follow-up, 56,552 patients were registered with a diagnosis of prostate cancer. When analyzed according to metabolic health status classification, the multivariable-adjusted hazard ratio (HR) was 1.143 for the MONW group, 1.097 for the MHO group, showing the HR for the MONW group was higher than that for the MHO group. As the number of metabolic syndrome components increased, HR increased significantly. When stratified based on BMI, metabolically obese patients showed significantly higher HR than metabolically healthy patients in all BMI groups. CONCLUSION: This population-based nationwide study revealed an association between metabolic health status and the incidence of prostate cancer, and the risk increased according to the number of components of the metabolic syndrome.

Spontaneous perirenal hemorrhage (Wunderlich syndrome): An analysis of 28 cases.

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to analyze the characteristics, etiology, and treatment of a series of patients with spontaneous perirenal hemorrhage (Wunderlich syndrome [WS]). METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the records of 26 patients hospitalized for WS in a tertiary urological center between 2011 and 2018. All patients were evaluated for perirenal hemorrhage observed on computed tomography (CT) in the emergency department. Clinical variables (age, underlying diseases, symptoms, shock, and hospitalization period), laboratory test results, and radiological and pathological results were reviewed. RESULTS: The series included 28 events from 26 patients with a mean follow-up period of 20.2 ±â€¯18.0 months. Flank pain was most common symptoms (92%). Twelve patients (46%) had visible renal lesions and associated hematoma and 14 only showed perirenal hematoma. In six patients with shock (systolic blood pressure < 90 mm Hg), 2 underwent emergency angioembolization. Twelve patients (46%) underwent exploration and total nephrectomy. In the final diagnosis, 4 cases of renal cell carcinoma, 3 of angiomyolipoma, 4 of simple renal cyst, 2 of acquired cystic kidney disease, 4 of sarcoma or other malignancy, 4 of chronic pyelonephritis, and 5 of idiopathic WS were observed. Patient age was associated with prediction of renal cell carcinoma in the patients with WS. CONCLUSION: Renal masses are the main cause of WS, and CT is the diagnostic procedure of choice. Old age is a possible risk factor for renal cell carcinoma in etiology of WS. Surgical treatment is preferred in patients diagnosed with renal malignancy and in cases of hemodynamic instability.

Complications of glans penis augmentation.

Despite the controversy regarding penile augmentation (PA), glans penis augmentation (GPA) is used in penile reconstructive surgery in selected patients with small glans penis. Since 2003, injectable hyaluronic acid (HA) gel has been used for GPA. The attractiveness of HA gel fillers and interest in this technique have led to the use of other fillers for GPA, particularly irreversible fillers that improve the longevity of HA gels. Conversely, indirect glans augmentation via implantation of dermofat grafts or scaffolds between the corpus spongiosum and the distal tip of the corpus cavernosum is used to overcome poor longevity of the gel and glans surface undulation, which are the primary limitations of GPA using HA gel. Unfortunately, these implants form hard painful lumps over time in most patients and are difficult to remove. Blunt dissection is an invasive procedure that may cause vascular compromise and consequent glans necrosis in a few patients. We present our review regarding the current status of GPA for a more comprehensive understanding of this subject. Additionally, we have discussed a few complicated cases that were referred to us.

The use of a heating pad to reduce anxiety, pain, and distress during cystoscopy in female patients.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: This study evaluated the effects of using a heating pad during cystoscopy on anxiety, pain, and distress in female patients. METHODS: Seventy-four female patients who underwent rigid cystoscopy between January 2017 and August 2017 were randomized to either the experimental group using a heating pad (n = 37) or the control group using a pad without heat (n = 37). In the experimental group, a heating pad was applied to the patient's sacrum during cystoscopy. All patients completed the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory-S (STAI-S, 20-80) before and after the procedure and assessed their degree of pain and distress after the procedure using a visual analog scale (0-10). Systolic and diastolic blood pressure and pulse rate were also measured before and after the procedure. RESULTS: Demographic characteristics, mean age, procedure duration, and pre- and post-procedural systolic and diastolic blood pressures and pulse rate were statistically similar between the experimental and control groups. The mean STAI-S score of the experimental group was significantly lower than that in the control group (33.1 ± 10.1 vs 48.2 ± 11.1, p < 0.001). The experimental group had significantly lower pain and distress scores (visual analog scale, 3.8 ± 1.6 and 3.8 ± 1.8 respectively,) than the control group (6.4 ± 1.9 and 6.3 ± 2.1 respectively, both p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Using a heating pad during cystoscopy significantly reduced female patients' anxiety, pain, and distress. We found this to be a safe, simple, and effective tool to use during cystoscopy.

Differences in Urodynamic Parameters According to the Presence of a Hunner Lesion in Women With Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome.

PURPOSE: Differences in the severity of subjective symptoms have been noted depending on whether a Hunner lesion is present in women with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS). In this study, we aimed to identify differences in objective urodynamic parameters in women with IC/BPS according to the presence of a Hunner lesion. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included a total of 55 patients with IC/BPS. IC/BPS and the presence of a Hunner lesion on cystoscopy were diagnosed according to American Urological Association guidelines. The patients were categorized into a Hunner IC/BPS group and a non-Hunner IC/BPS group according to the presence of a Hunner lesion on cystoscopy. At the initial visit, a medical history was taken from all patients with IC/BPS, and they underwent symptom assessment using a 3-day voiding diary and laboratory tests. A urodynamic study was then performed before any treatment was performed. Baseline characteristics and urodynamic parameters were compared between the 2 groups. RESULTS: Of the 55 patients, 23 (41.8%) had a Hunner lesion on cystoscopy. As documented in the voiding diaries, the Hunner IC/BPS group had more frequent voids and a smaller maximal voided volume (P=0.045, P<0.001, respectively). Regarding urodynamic parameters, the mean volume at the first desire to void, normal desire to void, strong desire to void (SDV), and maximum cystometric bladder capacity (MBC) was significantly lower in the Hunner IC/BPS group (P=0.001, P=0.004, P<0.001, and P<0.001, respectively). On receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, patients with an SDV≤210 mL (area under the curve [AUC]=0.838, P<0.001) and an MBC≤234 mL (AUC=0.857, P<0.001) were likely to be in the Hunner IC/BPS group. CONCLUSIONS: The differences in patients' subjective symptoms between the Hunner IC/BPS and non-Hunner IC/BPS groups were confirmed to correspond to differences in objective urodynamic parameters.

Efficacy and Safety of a Fixed-Dose Combination Therapy of Tamsulosin and Tadalafil for Patients With Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms and Erectile Dysfunction: Results of a Randomized, Double-Blinded, Active-Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors and α-adrenergic blocking agents (α-blockers) are widely used for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). AIMS: To assess the efficacy and safety of fixed-dose combinations (FDCs) of tamsulosin and tadalafil compared with tadalafil monotherapy in patients with comorbid BPH-associated LUTS and ED. METHODS: A randomized, double-blinded, active-controlled trial was conducted of 510 men with BPH-associated LUTS and ED. Patients were treated with FDCs of tamsulosin 0.4 mg plus tadalafil 5 mg (FDC 0.4/5 mg), tamsulosin 0.2 mg plus tadalafil 5 mg (FDC 0.2/5 mg), or tadalafil 5 mg for a 12-week treatment period. For a subsequent 12-week extension period, the patients were administered FDC 0.4/5 mg. OUTCOMES: The primary outcomes were changes from baseline in total International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and International Index of Erectile Function erectile function domain (IIEF-EF) score at week 12 to prove superiority and non-inferiority of FDCs compared with tadalafil 5 mg. The safety assessments were adverse reactions, laboratory test results, and vital signs at week 24. RESULTS: The mean changes in total IPSS and IIEF-EF scores were -9.46 and 9.17 for FDC 0.4/5 mg and -8.14 and 9.49 for tadalafil 5 mg, respectively, which indicated superiority in LUTS improvement (P = .0320) and non-inferiority in ED treatment with FDC 0.4/5 mg compared with tadalafil 5 mg. However, the results from FDC 0.2/5 mg failed to demonstrate superiority in LUTS improvement. No clinically significant adverse events regarding the investigational products were observed during the 24-week period. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: The FDC 0.4/5 mg is the first combined formulation of an α-blocker and a phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor that offers benefits in patient compliance and as add-on therapy in patients with comorbid BPH-associated LUTS and ED. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS: The study clearly demonstrated the advantage of FDC 0.4/5 mg. The main advantage of FDC 0.4/5 mg was the enhanced efficacy on BPH-associated LUTS comorbidity with ED, the lower incidence of side effects, and the simplification and convenience of therapy, which led to better overall patient compliance. However, the lack of a tamsulosin monotherapy control group was a limitation of this study. CONCLUSION: The FDC 0.4/5 mg therapy was safe, well tolerated, and efficacious, indicating that combination therapy could provide clinical benefits for patients with BPH-associated LUTS complaints and ameliorate the comorbidity of ED. Kim SW, Park NC, Lee SW, et al. Efficacy and Safety of a Fixed-Dose Combination Therapy of Tamsulosin and Tadalafil for Patients With Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms and Erectile Dysfunction: Results of a Randomized, Double-Blinded, Active-Controlled Trial. J Sex Med 2017;14:1018-1027.

Characteristics of Prostate Cancer by Opportunistic Screening in Korean Men with a Prostate-Specific Antigen Level Less Than 4.0 ng per Milliliter.

Background/Aims/Objectives: We studied the detection rate of prostate cancer (PCa) among Korean men with a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level of less than 4.0 ng/mL. METHODS: A total of 1,680 men with PSA ≤4 ng/mL had a prostate biopsy from January 2004 to December 2014. The differences in clinical factors were analyzed and their independent predictive implications were evaluated. RESULTS: PCa was diagnosed in 331 (19.6%) and 99 of these 331 cancers (14.9%) had a Gleason score of 7 or higher. The detection rate of PCa increased from 6.67% (≤0.5 ng/mL) to 20.36% (3.01-3.9 ng/mL). There were significant differences in age 65.7 vs. 62.1 years, prostate volume 33.4 vs. 38.2 g, PSA density 0.10 vs. 0.08 ng/mL/mL between men with and without PCa. On multivariable analysis, age and prostate volume were the best independent discriminative parameters. When comparing PCa patients with a Gleason score less than 6 to those with a 7 or higher, patients with a Gleason score 7 or higher were older (67.2 vs. 64.8 years). CONCLUSIONS: Even when the PSA level is less than 4 ng/mL, PCas, including high-grade cancers, were detected in a significant number of men. In this group, patients with PCa were older and had a smaller prostate volume and high-grade cancers were detected more frequently in older cancer patients.

Development and External Validation of the Korean Prostate Cancer Risk Calculator for High-Grade Prostate Cancer: Comparison with Two Western Risk Calculators in an Asian Cohort.

PURPOSE: We developed the Korean Prostate Cancer Risk Calculator for High-Grade Prostate Cancer (KPCRC-HG) that predicts the probability of prostate cancer (PC) of Gleason score 7 or higher at the initial prostate biopsy in a Korean cohort (http://acl.snu.ac.kr/PCRC/RISC/). In addition, KPCRC-HG was validated and compared with internet-based Western risk calculators in a validation cohort. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Using a logistic regression model, KPCRC-HG was developed based on the data from 602 previously unscreened Korean men who underwent initial prostate biopsies. Using 2,313 cases in a validation cohort, KPCRC-HG was compared with the European Randomized Study of Screening for PC Risk Calculator for high-grade cancer (ERSPCRC-HG) and the Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial Risk Calculator 2.0 for high-grade cancer (PCPTRC-HG). The predictive accuracy was assessed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) and calibration plots. RESULTS: PC was detected in 172 (28.6%) men, 120 (19.9%) of whom had PC of Gleason score 7 or higher. Independent predictors included prostate-specific antigen levels, digital rectal examination findings, transrectal ultrasound findings, and prostate volume. The AUC of the KPCRC-HG (0.84) was higher than that of the PCPTRC-HG (0.79, p<0.001) but not different from that of the ERSPCRC-HG (0.83) on external validation. Calibration plots also revealed better performance of KPCRC-HG and ERSPCRC-HG than that of PCPTRC-HG on external validation. At a cut-off of 5% for KPCRC-HG, 253 of the 2,313 men (11%) would not have been biopsied, and 14 of the 614 PC cases with Gleason score 7 or higher (2%) would not have been diagnosed. CONCLUSIONS: KPCRC-HG is the first web-based high-grade prostate cancer prediction model in Korea. It had higher predictive accuracy than PCPTRC-HG in a Korean population and showed similar performance with ERSPCRC-HG in a Korean population. This prediction model could help avoid unnecessary biopsy and reduce overdiagnosis and overtreatment in clinical settings.

The Outcome of Multiple Slit on Plaque with Plication Technique for the Treatment of Peyronie's Disease.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the postoperative outcome of the multiple slit on plaque plication technique for the treatment of Peyronie's disease. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated 22 patients who underwent plaque incision with penile plication for the surgical treatment of Peyronie's disease, who had failed medical treatment between 2009 and 2014. Patients were grouped by preoperative degree of penile curvature into Group I: mild (n=5, 22.7%), Group II: moderate (n=11, 50.0%), and Group III: severe (n=6, 27.3%). After a thorough review of the medical records, we evaluated (a) the correction of the curvature; (b) sexual function; and (c) any penile shortening or other complications. RESULTS: The mean postoperative follow-up period was 39 months. Complete correction of the curvature was attained in 21 patients (95.5%). As an inevitable complication, minimal penile shortening (<1.5 cm) was reported by 14 patients (82.4%) but did not adversely affect sexual intercourse (0%), and all patients found the extent of penile shortening to be acceptable. Nineteen patients had good erectile function (International Index of Erectile Function >21). The most frequent complication was subcutaneous penile edema in three patients (13.6%), which was resolved within about 3 months following surgery. CONCLUSIONS: As a modified technique, multiple slit on plaque with plication is a simple, minimally-invasive and effective technique for correcting penile curvature regardless of curvature severity. The degree of penile curvature does not significantly predict the amount of penile length loss.

Differences in Urodynamic Parameters Between Women With Interstitial Cystitis and/or Bladder Pain Syndrome and Severe Overactive Bladder.

OBJECTIVE: To identify differences in urodynamic parameters between female outpatients with interstitial cystitis (IC) and/or bladder pain syndrome (BPS) and severe overactive bladder (OAB). MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 24 and 28 consecutive IC/BPS and severe OAB female patients, respectively. IC/BPS was defined based on the American Urological Association guideline, and severe OAB was defined based on baseline symptoms recorded in a voiding diary. Before treatment, symptom assessment using questionnaires and a 3-day voiding diary, as well as laboratory tests, were performed at the initial visit. The patients' baseline characteristics and urodynamic parameters were compared between the IC/BPS and severe OAB groups. RESULTS: The IC/BPS group showed fewer episodes of urge incontinence and shorter duration of symptoms than the severe OAB group (P = .019, P = .017, respectively). Volumes at first sense, normal desire, strong desire, and maximal capacity during filling cystometry (MBC) were significantly higher in the severe OAB group than in the IC/BPS group (P <.001, P <.001, P = .006, P <.001, respectively). The IC/BPS and severe OAB groups showed significant differences in urodynamic parameters in terms of MBC and the volume discrepancy between MBC and maximal voided volume (P <.001, both). The receiver operating characteristic curve also showed an area under the curve of 0.760 and 0.783 for MBC and volume discrepancy, respectively (both P <.001). CONCLUSION: Data from our study suggest that combined with other clinical findings, urodynamic studies could provide useful information to differentiate between a diagnosis of IC/BPS or severe OAB.