Our Summary

This study is about how a prostate biopsy procedure can introduce new bacteria into the prostate, which is an organ that is often prone to infections. The researchers took a group of 105 men who had clean (bacteria-free) prostates and then had biopsies. They found that about 20% of these men ended up with new bacteria in their prostates after the biopsy.

Interestingly, the presence of these new bacteria didn’t seem to change anything significant for the patients - there was no noticeable difference in their ages, PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) levels, white blood cell counts, prostate size, symptom severity, or risk factors for biopsy-related complications. The procedure did increase the white blood cell counts in the prostate fluid, but this didn’t seem to cause any changes in the men’s PSA levels or symptoms.

In simple terms, the study found that prostate biopsies can introduce new bacteria, but these don’t seem to cause any immediate problems for the patient.

FAQs

  1. Can a prostate biopsy introduce new bacteria into the prostate?
  2. Do the bacteria introduced by a prostate biopsy cause any changes in the patient’s condition?
  3. Does the presence of new bacteria in the prostate after a biopsy affect the PSA levels or symptoms?

Doctor’s Tip

However, it’s still important to be aware of the potential risk of infection after a prostate biopsy. To reduce this risk, it’s crucial to follow your doctor’s instructions for post-biopsy care, such as taking any prescribed antibiotics and keeping the area clean. If you experience any symptoms of infection, such as fever, chills, or pain, be sure to contact your doctor immediately. It’s also important to discuss any concerns or questions you have about the biopsy procedure with your doctor before undergoing it.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for a prostate biopsy are those who have abnormal results on a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, have a suspicious digital rectal exam (DRE) findings, or have a family history of prostate cancer. Additionally, patients who are experiencing symptoms such as frequent urination, difficulty urinating, blood in the urine, or pelvic pain may also be recommended for a prostate biopsy. Overall, the decision to undergo a prostate biopsy is based on a combination of factors including age, overall health, and individual risk factors for prostate cancer.

Timeline

Before the prostate biopsy:

  • Patient may have symptoms such as frequent urination, difficulty urinating, blood in urine or semen, or elevated PSA levels
  • Patient may undergo a digital rectal exam or imaging tests to assess the prostate
  • Patient may receive antibiotics to prevent infection after the biopsy

During the prostate biopsy:

  • Patient is typically given a local anesthetic to numb the area
  • Ultrasound or MRI may be used to guide the biopsy needles
  • Multiple tissue samples are taken from different areas of the prostate using a thin needle
  • Procedure usually takes about 10-20 minutes

After the prostate biopsy:

  • Patient may experience mild discomfort, bleeding, or blood in urine or semen for a few days
  • Patient may be advised to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for a few days
  • Results of the biopsy are typically available within a week
  • Patient may need follow-up appointments to discuss results and plan further treatment if necessary

Overall, the process of undergoing a prostate biopsy involves preparation, the procedure itself, and post-procedure recovery and follow-up. It is important for patients to discuss any concerns or questions with their healthcare provider before and after the biopsy.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks of developing a prostate infection from the biopsy procedure?
  2. How common is it for patients to develop new bacteria in their prostates after a biopsy?
  3. Are there any symptoms I should watch out for that could indicate a prostate infection post-biopsy?
  4. What steps can be taken to reduce the risk of developing a prostate infection after a biopsy?
  5. How soon after the biopsy should I contact you if I suspect I may have developed an infection?
  6. What treatment options are available if I do develop a prostate infection post-biopsy?
  7. Are there any long-term implications or complications associated with developing new bacteria in the prostate after a biopsy?
  8. How often should I schedule follow-up appointments to monitor for any potential issues related to the biopsy procedure?
  9. Are there any specific precautions I should take post-biopsy to minimize the risk of infection?
  10. Can the presence of new bacteria in the prostate after a biopsy affect future prostate health or cancer risk?

Reference

Authors: Seo Y, Lee G. Journal: J Korean Med Sci. 2018 Apr 6;33(17):e126. doi: 10.3346/jkms.2018.33.e126. eCollection 2018 Apr 23. PMID: 29686597