Doppler Ultrasonography in the Diagnosis of Dogs With Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia and Investigation of the Efficacy of Finasteride in Treatment

Abstract

Background Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a prevalent condition affecting the prostate gland in adult male dogs, often resulting in significant clinical manifestations. Doppler ultrasonography offers a non-invasive method to assess prostatic haemodynamics and vascular properties, which are crucial for understanding the pathophysiology of BPH and treatment effects. Objectives This study aimed to evaluate the effects of finasteride treatment on the haemodynamic and vascular properties of the canine prostate using B-mode and Doppler ultrasonography. MethodsSixteen dogs of different breeds, body weights (20-43 kg) and ages (6-13 years) were used in the study and classified into a healthy control group (n = 8) and a BPH group (n = 8). BPH presumptive diagnosis was performed through reproductive history, clinical signs (tenesmus, haematuria or dysuria) and prostatic volume by B-mode ultrasonography. The BPH group received finasteride treatment for 2 months. Prostate volume (PV), peak systolic velocity (PSV), end-diastolic velocity (EDV), resistive index (RI) and pulsatility index (PI) were measured before and after treatment using B-mode and Doppler ultrasonography. Results The BPH group exhibited a significant reduction in PV from 25.10 +/- 18.55 cm3 to 18.55 +/- 4.18 cm3 post-treatment (p < 0.05). PSV and EDV were significantly higher in the BPH group (p < 0.001) than in the healthy control group (p < 0.05). The BPH pre-treatment group had higher RI and PI values than the post-treatment group (p < 0.05). Additionally, finasteride treatment led to a marked decrease in RI and PI values (p < 0.05), bringing these parameters in line with those of healthy dogs. Enhanced blood flow parameters were observed, indicating the effectiveness of finasteride in reducing prostatic vascular resistance and improving overall prostate health. Conclusions Finasteride treatment is effective in reducing PV and improving blood flow parameters in dogs with BPH. Doppler ultrasonography is a valuable tool for monitoring treatment response and assessing prostatic haemodynamics in canine BPH.