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Updated: Aug 22, 2026

Povidone Iodine Rectal Preparation at Time of Prostate Needle Biopsy is a Simple and Reproducible Means to Reduce Risk of Procedural Infection
Published on: September 21, 2015
Septic shock after transrectal ultrasound guided prostate biopsy. Is ciprofloxacin prophylaxis always protecting?
Saleh Binsaleh1, Mana Al-Assiri, Samuel Aronson
1Division of Urology, Montreal General Hospital, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
Abstract:
We report a case of septic shock complicating transrectal ultrasound guided prostate biopsy despite antibiotic prophylaxis with ciprofloxacin. Patient was recently treated with the same agent for other infectious illnesses.
Insights
Septic shock occurred after a prostate biopsy, even with antibiotic prophylaxis. Recent antibiotic use may have contributed to treatment failure in this case.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Infectious Diseases
- Medical Case Reports
Background:
- Transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy is a common procedure for diagnosing prostate cancer.
- Antibiotic prophylaxis is standard to prevent infectious complications.
- Recent antibiotic exposure can influence treatment efficacy and infection risk.
Observation:
- A patient developed septic shock following a prostate biopsy.
- The patient had received ciprofloxacin prophylaxis before the biopsy.
- The patient had a recent history of treatment with ciprofloxacin for other infections.
Findings:
- Despite ciprofloxacin prophylaxis, the patient experienced a severe infection (septic shock).
- This suggests potential antibiotic resistance or altered susceptibility due to recent prior antibiotic exposure.
- The case highlights a rare but serious complication of prostate biopsy.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider recent antibiotic history when prescribing prophylaxis for prostate biopsies.
- Further research may be needed to optimize prophylactic strategies in patients with recent antibiotic exposure.
- This case underscores the importance of vigilance for infectious complications post-procedural.
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