PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What is the primary cause of prostatic pain?

1. Acute urinary retention

2. Inflammation of the prostatic capsule

3. Testicular torsion

4. Direct injury to the prostate

The correct answer is: Inflammation of the prostatic capsule

The primary cause of prostatic pain is commonly attributed to inflammation of the prostatic capsule. This condition is often associated with prostatitis, which can result in swelling and irritation of the prostate gland and surrounding tissues. When the prostate becomes inflamed, it triggers discomfort and can lead to significant pain sensations in the pelvic region. Factors contributing to this inflammation can include bacterial infections, chronic pelvic pain syndrome, or other irritative processes affecting the prostate. The resulting pain may present as sharp or dull discomfort that can radiate to the lower back, perineum, or even the genital region, highlighting the importance of the prostate's role in pelvic pain syndromes. Acute urinary retention does present with pain, but it usually manifests as distension and discomfort in the bladder rather than pain specifically tied to the prostate itself. Similarly, direct injury to the prostate might lead to pain, but it is not as common as inflammation due to underlying conditions. Testicular torsion, while it can cause severe pain, is a separate condition that specifically affects the testes and does not directly involve the prostate. Thus, inflammation of the prostatic capsule stands out as the primary cause of prostatic pain.