1/2. The perplexing problem of prostatitis.prostatitis presents the physician with a perplexing problem. It is seen often but is not easily treated. The acute form is serious but responds to antibiotic therapy. Chronic prostatitis does not respond well to any form of therapy, and opinion is divided regarding its cause. Bacterial localization tests have helped significantly in the diagnosis of chronic prostatitis. When Gram-negative organisms are found only in the prostatic fluid or in the last voided urine, bacterial prostatitis can be diagnosed. Most antibiotics, however, do not cross prostatic epithelium to combine with prostatic fluid; those that do are not effective against Gram-negative organisms. New agents hold promise but lack the test of time. While some cases of chronic disease definitely are caused by bacterial infection, most probably are not. The diagnosis in these instances is abacterial prostatitis. Treatment is symptomatic and varied. A phenomenon that adds to the mystery of etiology is the fact that antibiotics, particularly tetracycline, may help. psychotherapy often is needed but seldom is accepted. The physician must rule out underlying causes, such as a physical abnormality of the urinary system, for any form of prostatitis before considering it an isolated disorder.- - - - - - - - - - ranking = 1keywords = physician (Clic here for more details about this article) |
2/2. prostatitis. A continuing enigma.After all is said and done, prostatitis is still a syndrome often difficult to interpret and with an unclear etiology and pathogenesis in many patients. However, if approached intelligently by an interested, knowledgeable, and honest physician, prostatitis in its different variations can be diagnosed correctly and the adequate treatment adjusted accordingly wherever possible. When no specific treatment is available, reassurance and general supportive measures will often alleviate the condition remarkably.- - - - - - - - - - ranking = 0.5keywords = physician (Clic here for more details about this article) |