prostatitis /pros′tətī″tis/ [Gk, prostates + itis, inflammation] , an inflammation of the prostate gland, usually the result of infection. The patient complains of burning, urinary frequency, and urgency. Acute prostatitis is a sudden, severe inflammation of the prostate, whereas chronic prostatitis is a persistent inflammation of the prostate characterized by dull, aching pain in the lower back or perineal area and dysuria; other symptoms may include fever and discharge from the penis. Treatment consists of antibiotics, sitz baths, bed rest, and fluids. Also called chronic bacterial prostatitis. Compare benign prostatic hyperplasia.
