Male reproductive anatomy
Male reproductive anatomy


Prostatitis - nonbacterial

Definition:
Nonbacterial prostatitis is an inflammation of the prostate gland with no known cause.

Alternative Names:
NBP; Prostatodynia; Pelvic pain syndrome

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

There are many theories about the cause of nonbacterial prostatitis: fungi, viruses, trichomonads, and obligate anaerobic bacteria have been suspected. Irritation caused by a reflux of urine flowing into the prostate may also be a cause.

Up to 65% of patients with chronic prostatitis have the nonbacterial form. The disorder is seen in 5 of every 10,000 outpatient visits by men.




Review Date: 5/25/2002
Reviewed By: Young Kang, M.D., Department of Urology, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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