[Validation of visual prostate symptom score, VPSS, in the evaluation of lower urinary tract symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (550 patients)]

Objectives: Our objective was to validate the VPSS (visual prostatic symptom score) score in the French language for the identification and monitoring of BPH-related LUTS in urological practice.

Methods: A prospective observational survey was carried out between September the 15th 2014 and July the 30th 2015 in urology practices. The first 4 consecutive patients aged over 60 years, with BPH-related LUTS requiring prescription of an alpha-blocker, were enrolled. We translated a "visual prostatic symptom score" (VPSS) into French and adapted it slightly. At the first visit and follow-up visit (1-3 months after the first visit), the patient completed 2 questionnaires: the French language version of the IPSS and the VPSS.

Results: Of the urologists contacted, 169 enrolled at least one patient and returned information; 550 questionnaires were included in the statistical analysis. The median IPSS and VPSS total scores, subscores and quality of life scores all decreased significantly (P<0.0001) between enrolment and the follow-up visit 1-3 months later. Correlations between the IPSS and VPSS at enrolment and the follow-up visit and their variation were all significant. Total VPSS was significantly correlated with total IPSS, as were the irritative, obstructive and quality of life subscores evaluated on the corresponding pictograms.

Conclusions: This study showed the VPSS to be a simple and useful tool for identifying and monitoring BPH-related LUTS.

Level of evidence: 4.