Pattern of Electrolyte Derangements in the Setting of Bladder Outlet Obstruction (BOO): A Hospital Based Study

Abstract

Bladder Outlet Obstruction is a major Urological problem especially in the aging male population. Effect of which may lead to Chronic kidney failure with attendant high mortality, decrease quality of life, increase health care expenditure and end-stage renal disease if untreated. This most often happens when presentation for care is late. Chronic kidney failure is characterized, among other things, by failure to maintain electrolyte homeostasis and inadequate excretion of metabolic wastes. A retrospective study of case notes of one hundred and three (103) patients who were seen in our facility between April 2014 and March 2015; with symptoms of bladder outlet obstruction. Eighty four (84) patients completed the required tests which were used for this study. Data from 84 patients with a mean age of 61.70 years (SD+11.139) were analyzed. The cause of BOO and their relative frequency were: Cancer of the prostate (Cap) in 32.0%, Benign prostatic hyperplasia in 50.2% and urethral stricture in 17.5%. Electrolyte derangements were seen in 18.3% for potassium, 6.1% for sodium, 10.8% for chroride and 35.7% for bicarbonate. There was no significant statistical association between electrolyte status and causes of BOO or even with the age of the patients. Electrolyte derangement is one of the complications of BOO resulting from renal compromise. Late presentation especially in high pressure chronic urinary retention most commonly lead to chronic renal failure. Preventive measures involving proactive health awareness to all men in this age group or even younger men should be done to forestall this morbid condition.