Male accessory gland infection

W Krause1

  • 1Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Hospital, Philipp University, Marburg, Germany. krause@med.uni-marburg.de

Andrologia
|March 14, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Male accessory gland infection (MAGI) can result from various infectious agents spreading through the male reproductive tract. Prompt antibiotic treatment is crucial to manage symptoms like leukocytospermia and prevent potential complications affecting male fertility.

Area of Science:

  • Urology
  • Andrology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Male accessory gland infection (MAGI) arises from pathogens ascending via the urethra, affecting structures like the prostate and seminal vesicles.
  • Common causative agents include Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis, and less frequently, enterobacteriaceae.
  • MAGI presents with characteristic symptoms such as leukocytospermia and elevated cytokines and reactive oxygen species.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To outline the etiology, clinical manifestations, and potential complications of male accessory gland infections.
  • To emphasize the importance of identifying infectious agents for effective treatment.
  • To discuss the impact of MAGI on male reproductive health and fertility.

Main Methods:

  • Review of literature on male accessory gland infections.
  • Analysis of common infectious agents and their routes of transmission.
  • Description of clinical symptoms and diagnostic indicators like leukocytospermia.

Main Results:

  • Infectious agents typically spread via the canalicular route, with haematogenous spread being rare.
  • Key pathogens identified are Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Chlamydia trachomatis.
  • Complications can include ductal obstruction, impaired spermatogenesis, and reduced sperm function, though reduced fertility is a rare outcome.

Conclusions:

  • Male accessory gland infections require specific antibiotic therapies tailored to the identified causative agents.
  • Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to mitigate complications affecting the male reproductive system.
  • While complications can occur, significant reduction in male fertility is an infrequent consequence of MAGI.

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