Name of the Condition

• Common name: Tuberculosis of prostate
• Medical term: Prostatic tuberculosis
• ICD Code: A18.14

Summary

• Tuberculosis of the prostate is a rare form of tuberculosis infection where the causative bacteria, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, affect the prostate gland. It typically occurs as part of a disseminated TB infection and can lead to urinary symptoms.

Causes

• Prostatic tuberculosis is caused by the spread of Mycobacterium tuberculosis to the prostate, usually from an existing focus of TB infection elsewhere in the body, such as the lungs.

Risk Factors

• Close contact with individuals who have active tuberculosis.
• Immunocompromised states, such as HIV/AIDS.
• History of tuberculosis infection.
• Poor socioeconomic conditions, contributing to higher exposure rates.

Symptoms

• Pain or discomfort in the pelvis.
• Dysuria (painful urination).
• Hematuria (blood in urine).
• Urinary frequency and urgency.
• In some cases, systemic symptoms of tuberculosis, such as fever, night sweats, and weight loss, may be present.

Diagnosis

• Medical history evaluation and physical examination.
• Urine cultures specifically for Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
• Prostate biopsy and histological examination.
• Imaging studies, like MRI or CT scan, for assessment of spread and involvement.

Treatment Options

• Standard anti-tuberculosis therapy, including a combination of antibiotics such as isoniazid, rifampicin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide.
• Duration of therapy varies, typically lasting 6-9 months.
• Regular monitoring for drug efficacy and side effects.
• Surgical intervention may be necessary in advanced cases to relieve obstruction.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• With appropriate treatment, the prognosis is generally good, with most individuals recovering fully.
• Continuous follow-up is crucial to ensure complete resolution of infection and to monitor for recurrence.
• Regular check-ups to assess liver function and potential drug side effects.

Complications

• Chronic prostatitis.
• Prostatic abscess formation.
• Infertility or reduced fertility in severe cases.
• Spread of tuberculosis to other organs if untreated.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Adhering to prescribed tuberculosis medication regimen.
• Implementing measures to avoid exposure to tuberculosis carriers.
• Healthy lifestyle practices to boost immunity, such as balanced diet and regular exercise.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Sudden onset of urinary symptoms.
• Persistent fever, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss.
• Any signs of hematuria or severe pelvic pain.

Additional Resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Tuberculosis Information.
• World Health Organization (WHO) - Global Tuberculosis Report.
• National Tuberculosis Controllers Association (NTCA).

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure the correct code (A18.14) is used for tuberculosis of the prostate.
• Confirm whether tuberculosis involves other body regions, as additional coding may be required.
• Watch for common coding errors, such as confusing prostatic tuberculosis with other forms of urinary tract tuberculosis.