Prostatitis: overview

Introduction
One quarter of all men who have urinary problems have prostatitis. Prostatitis is a condition that causes infection or inflammation of the prostate, and may be one of four different types.

Chronic bacterial prostatitis (CBP)
CBP is caused by bacteria, and the symptoms are similar to ABP, but are not usually as severe or sudden.

Non-bacterial prostatitis (NBP)
NBP has the same symptoms as CBP, but the cause is not known.

Pelvic floor myalgia or Prostatodynia (PFM)
PFM may cause pain in the pelvic area, prostate and penis and/or voiding difficulties. There is no sign of inflammation, and no bacteria.

Acute bacterial prostatitis (ABP)
ABP is caused by bacteria and may produce the following symptoms:

• malaise
• fever
• chills
• muscular pain
• lower back pain
• pain in pelvic area with urination
• frequent urination (day & night)
• inability to empty the bladder
• pain with ejaculation

Expand All | Collapse All