For lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in aging males, which screening tests are appropriate?

The International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and urinalysis are appropriate screening tests for lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in aging males because they directly assess the symptoms' severity and underlying causes. The IPSS provides a standardized method for patients to describe the impact of their urinary symptoms on daily life, helping clinicians evaluate the need for further intervention or management. Urinalysis is a relevant test that can help identify any abnormalities in the urine, such as infection or blood, which could contribute to LUTS.

In contrast, although a digital rectal examination and PSA level can provide valuable information regarding prostate health, they are not direct measures of LUTS severity and do not specifically address the symptoms experienced by the patient. A stool test for colorectal cancer is irrelevant in this context, as it does not pertain to urinary function or symptoms. A CT scan of the abdomen is also not a routine screening tool for LUTS and is usually reserved for more specific diagnostic situations. Thus, the combination of IPSS and urinalysis is the most effective approach for evaluating lower urinary tract symptoms in aging males.