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Can prostate cancer be mistaken for prostatitis?

Some symptoms of prostate cancer and prostatitis, such as pain and urinary frequency, may overlap between the conditions. However, early prostate cancer typically causes no symptoms , and people may only notice symptoms at a more advanced stage.

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The prostate is a small gland that forms part of the male reproductive system. Prostate cancer and prostatitis are two conditions that can affect the prostate and may present with similar symptoms. However, the two conditions are different, as prostatitis refers to inflammation of the prostate, whereas prostate cancer is when cancer cells develop in the prostate. The prostate is a small, walnut-shaped organ that sits below the bladder, in front of the rectum. It plays an important role in male reproductive anatomy by making semen and converting testosterone into its active form. Prostate problems are more common in older adults because the prostate gland grows as a person ages, and the growth affects how it works. Signs and symptoms People with early stages of prostate cancer do not usually present with any symptoms. More advanced cases may cause symptoms, which can include : urination issues, which may include a weak stream and more frequent urination, especially at night

producing urine or semen containing blood

difficulty achieving and maintaining an erection

weakness or numbness in lower extremities or loss of bladder or bowel control pain in bones due to the spread of cancer Symptoms of prostatitis vary depending on the type and the individual experiencing the condition, but many symptoms can overlap. The following table highlights the symptoms for the four main types of prostatitis: CPPS ABP CBP AIP Trouble passing urine (and sometimes pain) Chills Burning sensation when passing urine No symptoms Pain in the bladder, testicles, and penis Fever Frequent urination Trouble and pain with ejaculation Burning sensation when passing urine Pain in the bladder, testicles, and penis Difficulty draining bladder Pain with ejaculation Learn more about prostate problems here. Differences and similarities Prostatitis is inflammation of the prostate, and prostate cancer occurs when cells in the prostate tissue divide uncontrollably, creating tumors. Some symptoms of prostate cancer and prostatitis, such as pain and urinary frequency, may overlap between the conditions. However, early prostate cancer typically causes no symptoms , and people may only notice symptoms at a more advanced stage. While both conditions can be uncomfortable, prostate cancer is significantly more dangerous and is the fourth leading cause of cancer death in males. Prostatitis does not result in death. Prostatitis is relatively common, as it is likely to affect around 50% of all males at some time during their lives. Similarly, more than half of all males in the U.S. may have some cancer cells in their prostate glands by the age of 80. However, most of these cancer cells may never cause any symptoms or become a serious health concern. Doctors can diagnose prostate cancer at an early stage with a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test. People may not experience any symptoms, but a high PSA level could indicate prostate cancer. However, other factors can increase PSA level, including prostatitis. Various other medical tests, such as blood tests, ultrasound, and biopsies, can help differentiate and identify which condition a person has.

Learn more about reasons for a high PSA that are not cancer.

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Frequently asked questions Some common questions people may have about both conditions can include: Can people have both? Yes, it is possible for a person to have both prostate cancer and prostatitis at the same time. It is not uncommon for a person to experience symptoms of prostatitis and receive a diagnosis for prostate cancer as well. Does prostatitis increase prostate cancer risk? Current evidence suggests that prostatitis, or other prostate problems, does not increase a person’s chances of developing prostate cancer. However, a person with prostatitis may be more likely to receive a prostate cancer diagnosis. This is because they may have more interactions with healthcare professionals and diagnostic testing, leading to the detection and diagnosis of prostate cancer. Researchers are investigating whether inflammation may contribute towards the eventual development of prostate cancer, but as yet, no evidence indicates this. Can prostate cancer cause prostatitis? While the conditions can occur at the same time, evidence suggests that prostate cancer does not inflame the prostate and cause prostatitis. However, some treatment options, such as radiation therapy, may lead to symptoms similar to prostatitis.

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