Prostatitis (Inflammation of the prostate gland)

Depending on the type, prostatitis can have various causes:

Acute bacterial prostatitis

– Caused by bacteria, usually from a urinary tract infection.

Chronic bacterial prostatitis

– Repeated infections with the same pathogens.

Chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS)

– The most common type. No bacteria are found, but symptoms persist.

Asymptomatic prostatitis

– No symptoms, often found accidentally during other exams.

• Pain or burning during urination
• Frequent and urgent urination
• Lower abdominal, pelvic, or lower back pain
• Pain during or after ejaculation
• Erectile dysfunction
• Fever (in acute cases)

• Medical history: symptoms, duration, sexual history
• Digital rectal exam to assess the prostate
• Urine test: to detect bacteria or signs of inflammation
• Blood tests, including PSA levels if needed
• Ultrasound: to evaluate prostate, bladder, and urethra
• Prostate massage: to obtain prostatic fluid (for chronic cases)

Acute bacterial prostatitis:

→ Antibiotics (typically 2–4 weeks), pain relievers, hydration; hospitalization if severe

Chronic bacterial prostatitis:

→ Long-term antibiotics (at least 4–6 weeks), sometimes combined with alpha-blockers

Chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS):

→ Multimodal therapy: medication, physiotherapy, stress management

→ Possible medications: alpha-blockers, anti-inflammatories, herbal remedies (e.g., pumpkin seed, saw palmetto)