Prostatitis
Overview
Plain-Language Overview
Prostatitis is an inflammation of the prostate gland, a small organ in men that helps produce semen. This condition affects the urinary and reproductive systems and can cause symptoms like painful urination, difficulty urinating, and discomfort in the pelvic area. It may also lead to fever and chills if infection is present. The inflammation can be caused by bacteria or other factors, and it can be either sudden or long-lasting. Prostatitis can impact daily activities due to pain and urinary problems.
Clinical Definition
Prostatitis is defined as inflammation of the prostate gland, often caused by bacterial infection or chronic pelvic pain syndrome. It is classified into four categories: acute bacterial prostatitis, chronic bacterial prostatitis, chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS), and asymptomatic inflammatory prostatitis. The condition is characterized by prostate inflammation, which may lead to urinary symptoms such as dysuria, frequency, urgency, and pelvic or perineal pain. Acute bacterial prostatitis typically presents with systemic signs like fever and chills, while chronic forms often have more subtle or recurrent symptoms. The pathogenesis involves bacterial invasion or noninfectious inflammation, with common pathogens including Escherichia coli and other gram-negative rods. Prostatitis is clinically significant due to its impact on quality of life and potential for complications like abscess formation.