bacterial prostatitis, a bacterial infection of the prostate. Acute bacterial infections usually involve gram-negative bacilli, such as Escherichia coli. Most cases are treated with a prolonged course (greater than 1 month) of broad-spectrum antimicrobial drugs. Abscesses may be associated with anaerobic bacteria. Chronic bacterial prostatitis is usually caused by gram-negative bacilli. It is less common and characterized by low back pain, dysuria, and perineal discomfort. See also prostatitis.
