Chronic bacterial prostatitis may also stem from cystitis, urethritis, and epididymitis. This form of prostatitis comes on gradually and may be exacerbated by other factors such as excessive alcohol or trauma. These factors are believed to cause congestion within the prostate gland, resulting in a breeding ground for bacteria. Treatment usually involves antibiotic therapy for 6-12 weeks, prostate massage therapy, and ultimately can result in surgical removal of the area. Nonbacterial prostatitis is the most common form of prostatitis, and the least understood of the four disorders.
Nonbacterial prostatitis can be a chronic, painful condition found in men of all ages.
Symptoms simulate those of chronic bacterial prostatitis. However, patients with nonbacterial prostatitis rarely have a history of urinary tract infections. Fluids from the prostate contain white blood cells that your body usually produces to fight an infection. These white blood cells are present even though you have a negative bacteria culture. Although no known bacterial organism is found, doctors often treat with antibiotics.