Clinical Research Directory

Urinary CTGF in Benign Prostatic Obstruction

Benign prostatic obstruction (BPO) is one of the most common causes of bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) and may lead to progressive structural and functional alterations in the bladder over time. Prolonged obstruction triggers a bladder remodeling process characterized by detrusor hypertrophy, ischemia-reperfusion injury, smooth muscle loss, and progressive fibrosis. These pathological changes may result in impaired detrusor contractility, increased post-void residual volume, and suboptimal functional recovery following surgical treatment. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is a matricellular protein that plays a key role in fibrogenesis and is markedly upregulated under hypoxic, ischemia-reperfusion, and inflammatory conditions. Experimental and cellular studies have demonstrated that CTGF promotes fibroblast proliferation, extracellular matrix production, and collagen deposition, thereby contributing to bladder fibrosis. Increased CTGF expression has also been associated with fibrotic differentiation of bladder smooth muscle cells. The aim of this observational study is to evaluate the relationship between urinary CTGF levels, bladder fibrosis, and functional response to surgical treatment in patients with benign prostatic obstruction. Preoperative urinary CTGF levels will be assessed and correlated with postoperative functional outcomes and clinical improvement. This study aims to determine whether urinary CTGF may serve as a non-invasive biomarker of bladder fibrosis and a potential predictor of surgical treatment response in patients with BPO.

Association Between Qmax/eGFR Ratio and LUTS Severity in Men Over 40

This study will look at how well a measure called the Qmax/eGFR ratio is related to the severity of urination problems in men over the age of 40. Qmax is a test that shows how fast a person can urinate, and eGFR is a number that reflects kidney function. Men who have urinary symptoms will be asked to do a urine flow test, a blood test, and fill out a questionnaire about their symptoms and quality of life. We will study if there is a link between the Qmax/eGFR ratio and how severe their symptoms are. The results may help doctors better understand how kidney and urinary function are related in men with these problems.

Uroflowmetry and IPSS Factors Influencing Surgical Decision

This study aims to identify which symptoms or test findings lead men with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) to consider surgical treatment. Male patients who visit the outpatient clinic for LUTS will be asked whether they would consider surgery in the future if their symptoms persist. Along with this, symptom severity scores (IPSS), quality of life scores, and uroflowmetry measurements such as maximum flow rate (Qmax) and post-void residual volume (PVR) will be collected. The goal is to determine which factors are most strongly associated with a desire for surgery. This is an observational, non-interventional study.

Clinical Outcomes and Ejaculatory Function in BPO Patients Treated With Silodosin

This observational study aims to evaluate the relationship between silodosin-induced anejaculation and clinical outcomes in male patients with benign prostatic obstruction (BPO). Silodosin is a commonly used alpha-blocker for lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). However, it may cause ejaculatory dysfunction, particularly anejaculation. In this study, patients receiving silodosin for the first time will be grouped based on whether they experience anejaculation or not. Treatment response will be assessed using urinary flow rate, post-void residual urine, and International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS). Sexual function will be evaluated using the International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5) before and after treatment. The study aims to explore whether the presence of anejaculation is associated with improved symptom relief or differences in sexual health.