Acute prostatitis in middle-aged men: a prospective study

S Kravchick1, S Cytron, L Agulansky

  • 1Department of Urology, Barzilai Medical Centre, Ashkelon, Israel. cambell@netvision.net.il

BJU International
|December 18, 2003
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Acute prostatitis in middle-aged men can lead to persistent infection and elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels for up to 3 months. Early re-evaluation for abscesses and ongoing PSA and TRUS monitoring are crucial for optimal clinical outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Urology
  • Andrology
  • Medical Imaging

Background:

  • Acute prostatitis is common in middle-aged men.
  • Persistent symptoms necessitate further investigation.
  • Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and imaging are key diagnostic tools.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the clinical outcomes of middle-aged men with acute prostatitis.
  • To determine optimal timing for prostate-specific antigen (PSA) reassessment.
  • To identify residual echotextural and vascular changes post-inflammation.

Main Methods:

  • Transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS) with color Doppler imaging was used.
  • 28 middle-aged men were evaluated at 3, 6, and 12 months.
  • TRUS results were correlated with laboratory data and clinical outcomes.

Main Results:

  • Two prostatic abscesses were detected.
  • 19 patients (68%) were infection-free at 3 months.
  • Elevated PSA levels were observed in 39% of patients at 3 months, with three prostate carcinomas diagnosed. Increased intraprostatic color flow (68%) and hypoechoic areas (46%) were noted.

Conclusions:

  • Abscess re-evaluation should occur within 48 hours.
  • Acute prostatitis patients often experience persistent infection.
  • PSA levels can remain elevated for up to 3 months; PSA and TRUS monitoring are recommended to avoid missing prostate cancer during acute inflammation.

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