“What is the best test for a prostate abscess?”
I'm a 45 year old male who has a suspected prostate abscess, and my doctor has recommended that I get an MRI to assist in diagnosis. Is this the best test for this purpose?
11 Answers
Once clinically suspected from history taking and physical exam including digital rectal exam, MRI is an excellent choice for confirming the suspected diagnosis. After confirmative diagnosis, you and doctor - preferably an able trustworthy urologist need to jointly decide if you need to have a timely surgical drainage or intensive medical treatment depending on your clinical pictures and course. To help you facilitate how to work effectively with the doctor, please take time to read "Sick? What to Do?" at http://formefirst.com/eNewsletter06.html . I hope the above could be useful for managing your possible prostate abscess. Best wish for a good medical care.
A contrast CT and MRI, or transrectal ultrasound should all detect an abscess.
The most typical sign of prostatic abscess is a severely tender prostate with areas of fluctuation on digital rectal examination.
Further work up is required by Urologist to have proper diagnosis and to proper plan for treatment.
Further work up is required by Urologist to have proper diagnosis and to proper plan for treatment.
An MRI is a very good method to look at your prostate anatomy. An ultrasound is also effective and much less expensive. Bottom line, the ultrasound is fine but the MRI will provide a bit more detail.
Several types of imagining can be used to confirm the diagnosis of prostatic abscess. The type of study will depend upon availability, urgency and unique patient characteristics. MRI, CT, and ultrasound can all be helpful to diagnose prostatic abscess.
Yes this is a great test to help make the diagnosis
Yes.
Yes! And MRI will provide your physician with all the information they need to determine whether or not you have an abscess or another prostate-related pathology.
Yes the prostate MRI is one of the best diagnoses tools for this although you can use a CT scan with contrast although its a lot more radiation. Both modalities work well. The treatment differs depending on the size of the abcess where you can get IR to drain it or get a TUR(this ransurethral resection) to unroof it.
T
T
Trans rectal or transurethral drainage by puncture. Depending on size and location.
There is no single best test, but an MRI is an option. I'd defer to your primary urologist for any medical orders though as they know your entire case.
