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Urology  (Expert Forum)
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Prostatitis Question
Answered by
Kevin Pho, MD - Internal Medicine
KevinMD.com
Questions in the Urology forum are answered by Dr. Stephen Liroff, affiliated with the Henry Ford Hospital. Topics covered include benign prostate disease, penis curvature, cystisis, kidney stones, pediatric urology, prostate, sexual dysfunction, urinary tract infections (UTI), and urological cancers.

Prostatitis Question

by tarboosh, Apr 08, 2004 12:00AM
Hello,

I am a 27 year old male without a history of major health problems. Approximately 6 weeks ago I began to experience some bladder dysfunction. The symptoms that I have experienced are urinary frequency (every 10-15 minutes), urgency, dull pain in the pelvic area, a slight burning sensation during urination, difficulty starting urination, and a weak urinary stream.  

My GP initially believed that I was suffering from a bladder infection and prescribed a one week regiment of antibiotics (Voltarol – 50mg). When my symptoms persisted, I was referred to a Urologist.

The Urologist immediately suspected that I was suffering from Prostatitis. A Stamey Localization Test and full STD screen were conducted immediately. The STD screen came up negative. The Stamey Localization test, however, showed numerous white and red blood cells and a large number of Gram Positive Cocci from the post-massage specimen. The doctor told me that he had not seen such a high concentration of puss cells in a post-massage specimen in some time. The fluids were cultured and they came up negative.

The doctor proceeded to prescribe a six week course of Ciprofloxacin of 500 mg twice daily and one weekly prostate massage. Unfortunately, I am frustrated to report that 3 weeks after beginning the course of antibiotics I have yet to feel any relief of the symptoms. My doctor insists that I must be patient and that I should begin to feel some relief at the 4-week mark, however, I am becoming somewhat impatient. It is a debilitating ailment that has caused me a great deal of stress and strain. I do derive fleeting relief from the massage sessions, but the symptoms return within 3-4 hours.

My doctor has told me that the success rate for this treatment is 70%. Should I be concerned that I have yet to feel any relief from the symptoms? How long does it usually take for the symptoms to subside? If this treatment does not work, should I be worried? What other treatments will be attempted if this one fails? I would appreciate any advice and insight you may have. Thanks!

by Kevin Pho, MD, Apr 08, 2004 12:00AM
There are some cases of prostatitis that requires 4-12 weeks of antibiotics.  Also, make sure that the bacteria that is growing out of the prostatic massage is sensitive to the antibiotic that is given to you.

If antibiotics do not help, there is the possibility that an abscess may be present.  This does not respond to antibiotics and may require draining.  A transrectal ultrasound can be considered to image the prostate.  This option may be discussed with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Thanks,
Kevin, M.D.
Member Comments

by paul32, Apr 09, 2004 12:00AM
To: Prostate
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by wowisme, Apr 14, 2004 12:00AM
To: Prostate
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by WalkerP, May 03, 2004 12:00AM
To: Prostate
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